My darlin and I stayed home from church. We are both sick. I missed being at church.

I’ve been thinking today of all the many things I’m thankful for,

my health, and being sick (it reminds me how thankful I am when I’m healthy),

my sweet family-parents who are saints, siblings I can count on,

a most wonderful husband,

children who are responsible and loving,

sweet grandchildren I am so blessed to be able to see on a regular basis. they fill my heart with so much love. I am thankful for cousins, nieces, nephews, uncles, and aunts. So much awesome family!

I’m so thankful for a home, for wonderful neighbors, and a community that is full of goodness.

I’m thankful for freedom to worship God. I am so thankful that I can talk to Father In Heaven. He listens, and is aware of all of us. I know this, and I’m thankful for it.

Most especially I’m thankful for the Savior whose birth we celebrate this time of year. I believe He is who the scriptures tell us He is, the Son of God-Born to Mary as a sweet tiny baby. He condescended to come to earth, He gave us His gospel, and an example to follow of how to live it. He taught us what to do in challenging times through parables. He healed the sick. He blessed others and asked us to do the same. He atoned for our sins, so we can repent and do better, and have a chance of getting back to Father. Without Him all is lost. With Him, there is hope, there is Grace, there is Love. I am so thankful for Him.

This year, I know many people who are struggling. They have lost someone they love, or they feel they can’t go on. Our Savior can help them too. He knows all the feelings of a sad heart, and He knows how to heal it. We can trust Him. I’m so thankful we can trust Him to carry us when we struggle.

I will remember Him this Christmas season. I will remember my blessings, and be thankful.