An Attitude of Gratitude

They were a small community. They moved into a land much different from their homeland. They were ill-prepared for the hardships they encountered. They were cut off from their families and friends back home. At the end of their first year in their new home, nearly half of their population had died. To say they lived in a challenging situation would be an understatement. They were out of their comfort zone and barely surviving. What would be their next steps? What would you have done?

The Pilgrims decided to celebrate with a feast of Thanksgiving. They thanked God for helping them survive and providing for their needs in their new home that first year. In spite of losing half their population, they gave thanks! Instead of wallowing in their misery and whining about their misfortunes, they chose to be thankful for what they had. They had an attitude of gratitude. It strengthened them for the coming year. 

In the midst of all our difficulties, what can we find to be thankful for this year?

Happy Thanksgiving!