Gratitude. I wish it came more naturally to me. I am often reminded of the act of practicing gratitude and how that seems to redirect my heart and mind. Some days it comes more easily; others it feels hard to come by. Still, every day I am reminded that there is much to be grateful for. And over and over again I’m brought back to the basic truth that God loves me and cares for me and has put people in my life to love me and who I love back. This month God has stirred gratitude in me for many different things and people. 

For the first time ever, we saw the Northern Lights. I have always wanted to see them and we were able to right from our front porch. Wow, what artistry and beauty. God’s creation is good. 

While I couldn’t be present, I had the privilege of getting a glimpse of the national Covenant Youth camp in Colombia, through photos, videos, and stories shared by friends. I’m grateful to see the leaders who I’ve had the privilege of working with for the past 4 years, incorporating new things they’ve learned into their activities and teachings. They are so graciously serving youth and the impact is being seen.

I’m grateful for time to serve vulnerable communities here in the Twin Cities, this month through the Compassion Clinic. The medical/dental clinic is run by volunteers from 4 Roseville area churches and involves other community organizations and support. This year during the day-long clinic over 220 people were attended to by a doctor or dentist or ophthalmologist. I was able to serve as a translator and my son Ben served in the kids area, as well as helping with translation in the vision section of the clinic. It was beautiful to meet so many people and see love in action.

I’m grateful for reconnection with dear friends. This month I spent time with college friends and their families and it was so good for my soul.

I’m grateful for the opportunities to be creative and a bit artistic. I’ve decided to submit a photo collage for the Covenant World Relief and Development gala being hosted in celebration of it’s 80 anniversary. As I’ve put together the collage that illustrates youth cultivating peace in Colombia, I’ve been pouring out thanks to God for the ministries of Be Peace Make Peace, ArtPeace, and ShaloMusic.

As always I’m grateful for my family. I’m grateful for the ways we have lived into this new transition with humor, love, grace, and vulnerability. I love watching the boys do things they love, like playing percussion at the high school band concert, or working on physics problems on the chalkboard wall in the bedroom. 

I’m grateful for so many walks during warm fall days; for watching the seasons change and being reminded of God’s presence through it all.