Thanksgiving at Taco Bell

     My church, Mountain Life, has been looking at the book of Philippians. The series is entitled: "Big Picture Living".  This week was about "Living Strong in His Strength."  In the reading Paul notes the he has known both plenty and lack in his life. (Philippians 4:12)  Pastor Scott Fine challenged the congregation to think about contentment in this advent season.  It got me thinking about a day when my son was only three years old.
     We had just moved back to Virginia from Japan. We were having lunch at Taco Bell. My son had eaten and was fast asleep on my lap. I was nibbling on my burrito and chatting with my husband. I looked down at my son. He was so peaceful and beautiful.  My heart simply could not hold more love. In that moment I knew that I understood contentment. I was fed, warm and surrounded by my little family.  I have revisited that moment many times over the years, especially when my wants try to take precedence over my true needs.
      I have returned to my "Taco Bell" moment several times since my husband got laid off. It reminds me that I am just as content now as I was that day.  All of us are healthy. We have shelter, water, food and warm clothes.(Thank you Jesus, because it was 16 F this morning!)  Most importantly, I have my little family.

Hanging out with my boys.

They mean more than anything else and I am deeply grateful.
     So this Thanksgiving I am focusing on abundance. My needs are met and my life is overflowing with friends and family that love me for who I am.   I am thankful for these gifts and for "Taco Bell" moments that remind me of what really matters.

Friends Are True Wealth

A Message from the Heart.

     I recently traveled back east to visit some very dear friends.  When I returned, I found the above message from my husband.  Like many people, we are keeping a sharp eye on our budget. Yet, we decided that going to see my friends was worthy of cuts elsewhere. The return on my trip was immeasurable.
      I did not sight see.  I visited.  I sat and drank warm beverages and chatted. I ate and I slept. I was refreshed by the company of those I know well.  There is a deep peace in being accepted and understood; this is often found in the company of dear friends.  New clothes, phones, jewelry and "stuff" will eventually break or go out of style. Memories of my trip continue to delight me and the connections with my friends will never go out of style.  As Plautus noted: "Where there are friends, there is wealth."