A Time of Thanksgiving

Thanks. We all seem to focus on this particular part of the holiday; the thanking part. We begin to realize all that we are thankful for. We come together to celebrate our thanks for country, family, God, etc. I know that I've never taken much thought about the ending of the word Thanksgiving. Giving. I sit here wondering about what it is to give. I know what I'm thankful for, but what about the giving part of this holiday? How do I give? When do I give? Do I give? What do I give? You get the point. So, I took a moment to think about what I am thankful for, and it made me realize that I do give. That this time of year, and year round, hopefully, I am giving. This is not a pat on the back, but a reassurance that while being thankful, I can also be giving.

The things that cover my thanks and giving.

My family. Could life be sweeter than it is now? I try hard not to let this time pass me by with wishful thinking of "someday" and "what if." I have an awesome best friend as a husband, two amazing little boys, and an entire extended family that loves one another. My husband and I know life, right now, is happening now, and it's great! We are happy. We are healthy. We know how to work hard and play hard. We know how to sacrifice and enjoy life on the meager student income we have. We know about ups and downs. We know about heart ache and joy. We know about failures and successes, trials and triumphs. We know about poopy diapers and teething. We know about band aids and bruises. We know about drive through and time outs. We know about no-nos and hugs. We know about firsts and lasts. We know about each other. We spend time with each other. We love each other. We trust each other. There is never a day that goes by where we, as a couple and as a family, haven't done something for one another. Plenty of opportunity to give, and give thanks.

My testimony in a living Savior, Jesus Christ. In His gospel and word as contained in the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price, and Ensign. In His living prophets that direct His work on this earth. In the restoration of His priesthood power, that I have witnessed change my life. In eternal families linked to our loving Father in Heaven and eternal family members. Knowing that I am a child of God, and I have a purpose and a divine heritage. A testimony that Christ died and lives for me. That Joseph Smith saw the resurrected Christ and the Father side by side. That he heard them speak, and open the heavens once again. For me. And for you. There is so much we can give with this knowledge, and many thanks we are indebted. Our service and voice is needed in people's lives who do not know the Savior.

So, with all of our thanks this holiday season, remember that to give is greater than to receive and we do have much to offer.

"The Widow's Mite" by James C. Christensen

Happy Thanks-giving.