thanks giving 2008

I love Madeira's tradition of giving thanks. My high school always dedicated an assembly to the community's thanksgiving. Anybody could go to the mike and give thanks. It was a bit tedious but beautiful. A Mad girl wrote a note this year, and another Mad girl would compile a list in college so that we could continue the tradition and connection. It was a lesson that impacted a lot of our souls.

So, here is my 2008.

Thanks for good books that impact my life (the irrational season, eat this book, teacher man, etc); the gentle kindnesses of the everyday (a stranger letting me go ahead in line, off-hand, one-line compliments); friends of the kindred spirit variety that join you on the journey in the most unexpected and splendid ways; my family who I enjoy, admire and love; all that I'm learning in my first full-time teaching gig; laughter, smiles and winks; thoughts that stew in your mind 24/7 that you can dip into when you have time to journal; far-off places to read and dream about; the sheer quantity of beauty and ideas to be experienced; learning how to sew (and patience and humility); the ability and drive to grow; a God good and big.