Yesterday I heard a testimony from a 9 year old girl that touched my heart. This young girl has only two close family members in her life, her mother and grandmother, and both women are having serious physical problems. With every right to complain, she challenged everyone in the congregation to show their gratitude at this time of Thanksgiving, to their Lord and those around them, without asking for anything.
This short and powerfully sweet testimony struck me today as I reflected on the many people showing their love and concern for me and my family as we go through this journey in our lives. So many people have come out of the woodwork to show they care. I've had strangers send me messages of courage, offering me both physical and emotional support, having heard my story from a mutual friend. Old acquaintances have stepped forward to connect and share their feelings and memories. Many close friends and family have sent letters, texts, emails, and gifts. I've received countless offers of baby-sitting to help with doctor's appointments or just for a night out with Adam. Many people have offered to make dinner or have already done so, allowing me to rest and enjoy time with my family. I could truly go on and on! I am very fortunate to have been blessed with all of you in my life.
Adam and I celebrated our sixth anniversary this past weekend. We spent it together with our children, realizing that after six years, we are stronger than ever, and we have two little angels with good health and beautiful personalities (yes, I can even be grateful for Evan's screaming tantrums!). We talked about how lucky we are to be in a nice rental home, in a beautiful location here in NJ (we can see the Empire State Building from our bedroom window!), and within the boundaries of a ward that could not be better to us. Our extended family is blessed as well, and we feel loved to have their support.
There is nothing like counting one's blessings and showing gratitude to lift the spirit. As evidenced by this blog, my mind and body have been frustrated and anxious these past few weeks. But after this weekend spending time with my family, some uplifting church meetings, a little yoga, and a lot of friends and family providing support and encouragement, I now feel more centered. Like I can go out there and conquer this trial. I know that I will have help to get through this, from my family, from all of you, and from my Savior. Thank you all!
Now, what have you got to be thankful for?
Hey Tessa I was looking at Taryl's blog and found out about your blog. I just wanted to tell you what an awesome person you are and how much I have always looked up to you in Highschool. While reading your blog I started to bawl thinking how hard this must be but I know that you are such a strong person and if anyone can fight this I know you can. I will keep you in my prayers
ReplyDeletewith love
Amber
I was really touched to hear her testimony too- such wisdom from such a young (sometimes squirrelly) girl. I'm up for the challenge as I have so much to be thankful for. Right now I'm thankful for you and the example you give me as you approach all your challenges with grace, courage, patience, and a smile. xoxox!
ReplyDeleteI'm thankful for awesome friends like you who have such an awesome outlook & help us all keep an optimistic perspective! Love you Tessa- you're in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteEmily (Ernstrom) Stauffer