Magical Mondays - Thanksgiving Week Reflections

It's Monday once again.  A day of the week that so many in our society dread, because the weekend is over and it's "back to work" or "back to school."  But on this Monday in particular, the Monday prior to Thanksgiving here in the U.S., I am not dreading the day ahead, but am thankful for this day because I'm alive and am able to continue push forward in building something new for my family and the second half of my life.


I'm thankful as I reflect on my immediate surroundings.  I have walls and a ceiling surrounding me, keeping the elements out.  I have clothes to wear, and food on my table each day.  I have been blessed through the years with the means to support my family, and to provide for many of our wants or desires in addition to meeting our needs.  I have a lovely wife, and three beautiful children - all of whom I appreciate for their similarities to and differences from me.  I have I have been fortunate to be able to take my family on vacation each year to destinations across this great country, including favorite destinations such as Disneyland and Walt Disney World.  I'm thankful that the Disney "magic" still flows through my veins, and I am still very much a little boy-at-heart, and that I have a wife and children who also "get" and enjoy that magic.


I have friends nearby, and family members still alive to enjoy.  I have people who care about us and help us out when times are a bit troublesome.  I have a fabulous Scouting family, and am so very blessed to be able to mentor young men and serve with many other adult leaders.  I have a terrific church family, and am blessed able to serve my community.  I have a solid faith with a personal relationship with Jesus of which I am very grateful for, and not ashamed of.  I recognize that others might not share my spiritual beliefs, but I am very grateful that in this country we still have the right to differ in our beliefs.  I do not have any debilitating diseases or short of having to wear glasses each day any major disabilities, but even if I did, I would be thankful for whatever circumstances God placed me in because I have learned the importance of making the best of each situation and give my all to those around me, because that's what He calls me to do.


Even though I do not have a "traditional" job any longer, I am thankful.  I am thankful for 19+ years of experiences that are great building blocks for the new venture that I am embarking on.  Steps 1 and 2 of going into business for myself have now happened.  I am thankful for those around me who have helped shape and guide the process, and for a wife who is very supportive of what we are looking to undertake together.  I am thankful for a lifetime of volunteering experiences that are also building blocks to help mold what will come.  I'm thankful today that even though I am in the middle part of my life, I'm not so completely risk-averse that I'm not willing to try.


What are you thankful on this Monday?