Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time when one is asked the question: What are you thankful for?

It's a tough question for many of us right now when we're faced with losing Jim to cancer. Not to mention the world around us seems to be faced with so many challenges and seemingly insurmountable problems. Many might say that there isn't much to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving.

But if we pause and think for a moment, we can see that even in this time of great sadness, there is much to be thankful for. Let's put ourselves Jim's shoes and imagine what he's thankful for today:

1. The unwaivering love, devotion and strength of his wife Chris

2. The unconditional love of his daughters Dana and Lauren. When he sees their smiles he still lights up.

3. To know that hundreds of people love him and his family, and that so many are praying for them all each day (for a little perspective, Jim had a stack of emails printed out by his bed, over 2 inches high, people all over the globe are emailing and reading the blog)

4. To have lived an interesting life, filled with rich experiences, many great times, with fond memories of his childhood, college life, adulthood, family life...

5. Lastly, Jim is thankful to have a personal relationship with his heavenly Father. Jim has peace knowing that God is holding his hand along this final journey in his life. He knows that God is in control, will protect his wife and father his children, and will soon be welcoming him home.

Yesterday we had the honor of hosting Thanksgiving dinner at our house. We had great company including some members of the Ehrlich/Anderson family: Chris, Lauren, Dana, and Anne. We also had Jennifer's mother and sister here. Jennifer (my wife) commented that this one of the best Thanksgivings we have ever had. The time spent talking and praying (and shedding a few tears) with Chris, Anne and Rosemary at the dinner table, was precious and she will never forget it.

It was a special dinner as we all felt God's presence at our table last night. And for that we are very, thankful.