“Guess what!? For my work’s Christmas party this year, every family gets tickets to see the advance showing of The Last Jedi.”
My husband’s exciting news was received with huge grins and shouts of joy. Seriously . . . we were delighted. Star Wars is a family favorite, and it seemed like a great way to take a breather during the hurry of the holidays.
The movie was worth the treacherous roads we traveled to get there, and we returned home safely and with enthusiasm.
The announcement the next morning, however, curbed our holiday cheer and was completely unexpected. Over 60% of my husband’s company was being laid off. It was only ten days before Christmas, and most of the families there were let go . . . including ours.
I think we laughed. For real. What else could we do?
In the Bible I read, “in every thing give thanks,” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) so we tried to have a good attitude. To focus on the things we were grateful for . . . like the small severance check, the Christmas gifts that had already been purchased, a roof over our heads, and enough propane to get us through the winter.
We spent the next ten months reporting to the unemployment office, sending out a multitude of resumes, procuring a few temporary contractual jobs, and praying for something more permanent. And God took care of us.
Miracles are abundant in hindsight.
Even in our efforts to feel gratitude, which, thankfully, are improving, we never could have imagined the incredible blessings that would be ours because of this challenge.
As we approached the anniversary of the movie’s debut, a job opening came available locally. We were cautious because there would be a reduction in salary. My husband was initially leaning against it, but he accepted the position, and I watched with wonder as he chose to be thankful. He focused on all the good things he knew about the job, and he started the new situation with positive energy.
And then came the miracles . . .
The new job has provided one blessing after another:
Interesting work responsibilities that he has really enjoyed
Unbelievable medical insurance
A medical account to offset our deductible
Comprehensive dental and orthodontic coverage
Vision Care
Fiber optic internet and telephone services
Life insurance
Great 401K
Health incentives
An annual bonus
Family-owned business
Option to work from home
Wonderful co-workers
It seems to me that there is truth in the quote (written by . . . who actually knows?):
“Gratitude is a magnet for miracles.”
Every one of us faces challenges on a daily basis. Some are more difficult than others. But I am convinced that there is a reason we are told to give thanks in “everything.” Not only are we more pleasant to be around, but there is always something we can be grateful for no matter our circumstances. And then come the miracles. It’s that simple.
What are you grateful for?
If you want support to experience the incredible miracles that come from gratitude, I can help.