Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalms 100: 4-5)
In the most difficult times it can be challenging to give thanks. As single parents we give, give and give until we’re exhausted. During this process we ask for nothing in return. We only want what’s best for our children. Single parents delay their dreams so their children can have a solid education; good health and strength; and develop nurturing relationships.
Let us be thankful for the opportunity to educate our children. Getting an education is a right. It lays the foundation for many life lessons. It shapes how children think, process, and dissect information. Subsequently, during this process, children find their interests which influence their college major selection.
As a single parent these things are important as they are a sign we’ve raised an independent thinker who can make sound and responsible decisions. A child who has a solid education has all tools which can lead to better opportunities.
Secondly, let us be thankful for the health and strength of our children. It is through our child’s endurance and potential that we gain strength to press on. The constant need to make lemonade out of lemons, even with so few lemons, is challenging. Nevertheless, we make sure our children get regular check ups, eat well-balanced meals, exercise, take vitamins, and drink plenty of water.
Lastly, it is our responsibility to lay the foundation for our children to know the difference between a good friendship and a bad one. It is our responsibility to introduce our children to the mentors and pillars of the community who lead by example. I am thankful for those individuals who have strong morals who value people and the world around them.
On this day of Thanksgiving, it is these things that I am thankful for – the opportunity for my child to have a good education, the blessing of good health and strength; and the gift of people and positive influences.
A Lavender Place,
Thanksgiving 2020
