Remembering Our Blessings Despite Trauma

Winter arrived early in most of the country. Cold air and snowy roads met us before October turned to November. As I was driving home in the snow I realized I had not yet prepared my car for the winter ahead. So many things to do. Put in gloves, extra socks, a blanket, shovel and kitty litter in case I get stuck. Buy some HEET to put in the gas tank and clean it out so if there’s any water in the gas it won’t freeze. Fill up my washer fluid and air up the tires.

Then, it hit me. At least I have a car to be worrying about all of this. Yes, very thankful and blessed to have transportation. Sometimes the little things get in the way of remembering our many blessings.

In my depression I want to think about all I don’t have, and that part of the reason is because of all the trauma I endured. Maybe you can relate. It is when my mind goes to the negative I have to be mindful and remember there is so much I am blessed with right now.

God is providing money for continued therapy to get better.

I have clothes and shoes to wear.

I have food to eat every day.

I am blessed to still have my home. It is a blessing I don’t want to take for granted. I feel safe here and am grateful God has provided for me to still live in it.

As I said, I have a car in good condition to drive me to places I need to go and I’m healthy enough to be able to take myself. Two blessings.

I have electricity and water in my home. Which means hot meals and heat during these cold months in the Midwest. Along with hot showers to ease muscles each day.

This past week a mom contacted me about tutoring her daughter. I love working with kids and miss my teaching job immensely. Being able to tutor makes me feel like I’m still doing part of what I was trained and called to do initially. Thankful for the opportunity to invest in the future.

I am reminded this week that God has provided so much and I am thankful to Him for it. I don’t tell Him enough that I am. Remembering the many things I have instead of what I don’t helps lift my spirits and brings me a measure of peace. I hope you’ll take time this week to write down and thank God for His many provisions as well.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Susan

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