New Things

Last night at dinner my host family mentioned the new thing they're doing: finding 5 things to be thankful for each day. And it has to be done at the end of the day. And, to be honest, Lisa's lists are very inspiring, too.

Some days we need this more than others.

So here it goes:

1. The hug of a child at the end of the day who had a genuinely great day, who doesn't have many "excellent" days. Sharing his joy. Seeing and relishing the steps forward for one who just needs some extra love.

2. Heart-to-hearts about teaching with my co-op. Reassurance that I needed. Opening my eyes to what I have to learn and acknowledging the time it takes to get there.

3. Comfortable warmth to enjoy on the patio with the music of nature being more alluring than anything on my iPod. Birds flying close. Horses nearby. Companionship from my Bible and prayer journal. Free-flowing words.

4. Being overwhelmed by a thankful and joyful heart at what 5 months brought, taught, and was: wonderful. Peace, tears, and smiles from recollecting so many blessings within that.

5. A new tea to try, something to help with my cough and to bring my voice back. A surprise in the sips: sweetness with an undertone of pfeffernusse (an old memory).

Yeah, today was good.

~"My heart will never be the same, but I'm telling myself I'll be okay. Even on my weakest days, I get a little bit stronger." ["A Little Bit Stronger" - Sara Evans]~