A year of thanks.

I just finished reading One Thousand Gifts - a narrative that challenges readers to "live fully right where you are." Author Ann Voskamp speaks beautifully of grace in this book, noting that all of life - from its minutiae to its soul-altering moments - is a reflection of God's grace. "All is grace" she says, "because all can transfigure." Where we recognize and give thanks for the blessings that flood our lives, we reverse the cycle of self-inflation by making more room for God's glory.

Voskamp goes on to say, "Something always comes to fill the empty places. And when I give thanks for the seemingly microscopic, I make a place for God to grow within me. This, this, makes me full."

I turn 24 today. One more year behind, and more hope for days to come. As I think about the focus of this coming year (and years!) of my life, I see a need for greater appreciation of these blessings. My 25th year will be one of thanks.

(for birthday hugs at 3am on a blow-up mattress in my parents' home)

(for long walks with mothers)

(for new days, and new beginnings, and new dreams)

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