Thankful Thursday

Dear friends, Welcome to Thankful Thursday. It is a joy to remind you of all the blessings we have to enjoy. I have been through challenging times. Moments that were painful and lasted too long. Those were times when I needed to focus diligently on the good, even though I felt surrounded by misery. That was when this blog originally began. Humble beginnings. I grew into a strong person from that experience but I didn't know it at the time. I am visiting wonderful friends and family in Alaska.
In honor of this trip, I would like to share a short story. Anchorage, is not a huge city but it is the largest in the state. While we lived there, a Chili's was being built. I was ecstatic since Chili's reminded me of home. While sitting at my desk mindlessly not working, I saw the huge pepper for the signage drive down the street. At school I talked to my friends and classmates and quickly discovered I was not the only person who saw that massive pepper. Yes, Anchorage is not a huge city. When the day arrived for the opening, I am sure most of Anchorage went for dinner. I was smarter than that and waited a month. Sadly the buzz was not over and we had a long wait. We left Anchorage in 2004. So much has changed and much more has been built there. It is still not a huge city, but it is gorgeous!
What are you thankful for today? I love to hear your stories too. 

Life lessons from the piano

1: Its hard to remember to sit up straight when in the middle of the song. I know I need to do it and I remember at the beginning and the end.

2: Practice is important because you can't wing a recital. I can't remember the song unless I keep practicing it.

3: Music should be shared. I always get great joy from sharing my music and my knowledge with others. I am preparing to accept new students so I can pay it forward.

4: Music is a blessing and everyone who listens gets a little piece of it.

Contentment

I am content with what I have. My needs are met. I intend to enjoy what the good spoils in my life.

I've decided to no longer dwell on the past. I used to do that and it was not good for my health.

Accepting what we have with joy is the best attitude. This can reduce stress and increase happiness.

Its not easy but nothing in life ever is. It is worth it because life is too short to dwell on painful events or actions.

Dear Lord, Thank You for Your wisdom and patience. I am learning every day to be pleased with what I have because it all came from You as a gift. Amen.