Thanksgiving

Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good:  and his mercy endureth forever.  Ps 136:1

Around our house, this is the prayer used to return thanks at the end of a meal.  It's been tradition for at least 5 generations that I have witnessed, and I hope will remain one for many years to come.  Prior to my grandparents, it was probably recited in German.

Since it is Thanksgiving, I thought I might list a few things for which I'm thankful.

I am thankful for:

God's mercy.  We wouldn't be anywhere without it.  His gift of His Son, and forgiveness of our sins is the greatest gift imaginable.

My parents.  They taught me well, I think, and taught me how to teach my children and grandchildren.  I'm forever grateful.

My wife.  She's more patient than any woman I know, and never ceases to impress and surprise me.  I'm looking forward to a lot more years with her.  43 (41 married) years are not nearly enough.

My children and their spouses.  Despite the normal frustrations associated with raising 4 kids, they're, without exception, a blessing.  They're more help than anyone could imagine.  I'm fortunate to have all of them in the immediate area.

My grandchildren.  All 4 of them are a never ending source of delight.

My country.  Despite its problems, The United States is the best place on earth to live and raise a family.  I pray my grandchildren will know the freedoms I knew as a boy.

The brave men and women who wear the uniforms of our Armed Forces.  They go into harm's way on a daily basis to protect our freedoms.  All of them are worthy of our praise and thanks.

My friends.  I have but a few close friends, but any of them are worth knowing.  There's nothing I would not do for them.

Otis and Wally.  Our dogs are like children.  They help keep us young and give us someone to care for on a daily basis.  Wally's good at warming up my side of the bed, too.

Thanksgiving, and all the other excuses we have to get together as a family.  Time spent with any of them is never wasted.  

There are a lot of other things I probably should put in this, but, you get the idea.  I've been blessed, and am appreciative beyond words.

Thank you, Lord.