A Season of Thanksgiving

Even in times of distress we have things to be thankful for.

Another holiday season is upon us. In the words of Luke Bryan “days go slow, but years go fast”. We have had our share of long days in the office, in the hospital, and in the field doing what we love this past year; but as we prepare for Thanksgiving with our boisterous two year old I can’t fathom where the time has gone.  

Have we had frustrations, trying times, and down right depressing moments this last year. You bet. But we also have so much to be grateful for: successful recoveries from Chasen's surgeries, a rock solid company that stands behind their employees, abundant support from family and friends, and loving memories from the past year to name a few

In everything I do, people ask me how Chasen is getting along. During one conversation with a customer, we began to talk about the outpouring of love and support at the Seeds of Hope benefit this last year.

“I came to the benefit because I wanted to support your family. You know Justine, that is what is wrong with the world. We have got away from people helping people through churches or mission work, and instead they have turned to the government and we are funding handouts through taxes.”

In my current and past job roles, I have heard many a complaint about paying taxes, but this was a new spin on a typical conversation and it got me thinking. The Lord did not put on us on this planet to wear the newest pair of Tony Llamas, or drive the newest King Ranch pickup, or buy 200 acres of ground every year. We were put on this earth solely to serve one another and to glorify God.

But humility is a funny thing. It can prevent us from asking for help, or even accepting help when offered. Why did God create the human with these two instinctive natures? How can we break this cycle? We have to actively look for opportunities and pray for acceptance.

This has been one of the biggest challenges for Chasen and I. We are such independent people that forge our own path, that asking for directions or help with a refuel is tough. But down this road we learned that we can't-nor do we have to- do everything alone.

When we are hit with hard news or face another uphill battle, those that seem to wear those boots, drive that truck, and buy that farm ground with no struggle or strife creep into my mind. And the “life’s not fair” wagon tries to pick me up and whisk me away. Where are their challenges? What pain do they experience? How is this fair? And although these thoughts are natural, because we are human, they can be so damaging to dwell on. 

For those that are in my shoes, do not be discouraged by the appearance of life of others. There will be those that struggle through life with disease, addiction, and financial insecurity. Rest assured "the others" will be the individuals that serve us and during our times of need. They will help carry our crosses.

For all of those who picked up our cross this past year, we cannot say it enough, thank you! Whether you helped out on the farm, wrote kind words to our family, delivered a hot meal, or kept us in your daily prayers, we are forever grateful. Are we going through a trying time in our young lives? Without a doubt. But have we had opportunities to be grateful, blessed, and thankful for the love and support of others? Absolutely.  

As Thanksgiving comes and goes and we prepare for the Christmas season I would ask for you to take an opportunity to serve others, whatever that may be. And those that are on the other side of the coin, allow others to serve you.