Grateful List
Posted on Nov 22, 2022 by Heather Lewis
Thanksgiving is my favorite. No extra performances or gifts, just food, family, friends, and focusing on being thankful. Here’s my grateful list:
Happy, healthy kids: Each of my kids started a new level of school this year. In the years between toddlers and teenagers, the question is always, “What do I do to help this kid become a nice human?” As they grow, their influences outside of the house pull them stronger, and I am so grateful for the friends and teachers who encourage them when they’re out in the world.
Supportive church family: This is something I always had as a kid, which I do not take for granted. Anytime a friend feels lost or alone, I tell them about my church families (there have been many!) who have supported me through difficult times, and I pray that they find one for themselves. I am so grateful for the love and care of our church family, making it “cool” for our kids to listen to God’s guidance to do the right thing, and making worship and fellowship a joyful experience to be shared.
A job I love: Being a musician makes this a tricky one! When your passion is also your job, expectations don’t always match. Lucky for me, my other passion is connecting with people, and the people of Salem are particularly talented at connecting! I am so grateful for the encouragement our congregation always gives, and for the musicians of every level who help create meaningful worship that keeps us connected.
Supportive family: My husband is the wind beneath my wings. Every need is met without complaint or fanfare, and he loves his family fiercely and unconditionally. Our extended family is always there to support us, cheer for us, cry with us, and celebrate the little moments together. I am so thankful that such amazing love is within arm’s reach at all times.
I encourage you to consider your grateful list this week. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you’ll never have enough. Gratitude makes what you have enough.
In Christ’s love,
Heather Lewis
Director of Worship and Music