Giving Thanks
I’m finding the ground a little rocky, the way somewhat thorny, and the struggle uphill.
Scorching winds are buffeting, so today’s gratitude may seem a little odd to some
I’m thanking God for the difficulties; 
* dull throbbing ache in leg muscles
* new weaknesses that shock
* brain fog & confusion
* muddled thinking & forgetfulness
* inability to do all I long to do
* rasping soreness of finger joints
* bloating
* the utter shame of weight gain
* regrettable fact that doctors are really not interested
* sore ribs and cramping muscles
* unsatisfying sleep
* disappointment and powerlessness
The reality is there are many in the world who experience all of these and more, but don’t have You Lord God
* You I can run too as my resting place
* You who makes sense of it all
* You who turns this plague into something good
*You my Rock and Redeemer
And in the midst of it all, still I
* see Indian summer days
* have time to soak up the sunshine and relax to water playing
* hear crickets singing in the night
* witness new growth in the garden
* experience the moment my spirit danced in worship
* fully appreciate The Light from Darkness, from a front row seat
* am someone special to Grandchildren
* seeing sunny smiles from a surprise visit
* smell freshness in a box of organic vegetables
* experience the tenderness of friendship
* buy new plants for the garden
Father God Your constancy amazes me
Words and Pictures © Denise Stanford 2010
Within the Vine 