Good morning, Purposeful Hearts! Are you getting in the Thanksgiving mood yet? Have you done your grocery shopping, house decorating, and thorough cleaning? Sigh.
Did I just turn the thought of Thanksgiving into an obligatory To-Do List? Yes. Yes, I did. This time of year, we seem to be extra capable of taking what should be relaxing, restful, connecting time with God and those we love and morphing it into a constant cycle of people-pleasing productivity. It feels overwhelming. It feels necessary. And, if we’re not careful, it can feel like drudgery that turns our loving hearts of service into martyr-labeled lumps of coal. Whoa.
Why do we create the traditions that rule each holiday season? Why do we work extra hard to prepare our hearts and homes for time together? Answering these questions with the deepest “why” you’ve got will help you embrace the next six weeks with a heart that knows its priorities. Why do we do these things?
Fundamentally, we all know that the ultimate purpose of holiday time together is connection. So, we do the things that connect us to each other – things that carve out a bit of time and space to take a break from the ordinary. We do the things that connect us to our past – things that were done when we were children and Grandma and Grandpa were still with us, things we did when we thought times were simpler. Can you feel that purpose? Can you reminisce about those connections?
The nostalgia you’re feeling right now and the purpose you sense when reading about connection (if you’re like me) cause you to well up with gratitude. Gratitude for deep memories. Gratitude for the people God has brought into and out of your life. Gratitude for the gift of time – fleeting though it is. In this spirit of gratitude, enter your Thanksgiving week and the weeks to follow by focusing on what it’s all for – time and connection.
In this spirit of gratitude, you are living out the essence of your Purposeful Heart. You know your purpose, you see your undeserved gifts and grace, and you’re ready to let your grateful heart shine on those around you. So, embrace that Thanksgiving mood, and maybe I’ll see you at the grocery store!
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