It’s one of my favorite times of year.

I love the fall.  I love watching the trees become more colorful for a short time, then turn brown and shed their leaves.  Going from beautiful, lush green to brilliant color before they rest for the winter.

Thanksgiving might be seen that way.  The summer growing season is over, the harvest is in, and then the gathering of families and friends, with a beautiful, colorful feast before settling down for the winter.

This pause between the seasons is a wonderful time to reflect on the things that each of us are thankful for.  This isn’t necessarily what the Pilgrims were celebrating, but in a way, it is.  They made it through a dreadful winter, were able to grow and harvest to put away for the coming winter.  I am sure that they were working hard, long days that summer to ensure their survival.

So when the harvest came, they prepared a feast, and invited the Indians who had helped them learn how to survive in this new land.  They celebrated their survival, the friendship of the Indians, and the harvest.  More than anything, they gave thanks to God for bringing them through the hardships, for His provision, and His faithfulness.

At least that is what I believe.

When I consider what I am thankful for, there are so many things that come to mind.  I am thankful for my family.  Many don’t have family.  I am thankful for my friends and church family.  They are there no matter what happens.  I am thankful for my home and homestead.  There are so many homeless.  I am thankful for my health.  So many are dealing with cancer and other diseases.  I am thankful for being able to work and volunteer.  So many aren’t able to.

More than anything, I am thankful to God, for my faith, which is a gift.  I know that whatever comes here on earth is temporary, but because of my faith, I have the hope of eternal life.