Giving of Thanks

It seems only fitting on a day called Thanksgiving to devote a post to the giving of thanks. So I am going to do just that. What I am thankful for most in my life right now is my support system. This includes, but is not limited to, friends, family, counselors, staff, psychiatrists, and everyone else who has kept me safe. I suppose this would also include God, because without Him, I am completely lost. I am grateful to be on the Peer Council, and to be part of something that is giving back to others, even if we just keep giving back to ourselves. After all, we are peers too, first and foremost. I am grateful for a program called Friendship House that has done so much for me, and in a lot of ways, helped me get as far along in my recovery as I am today.

I am thankful just to be alive. I know there are many times when this life might have ended, and perhaps there are times when it almost ended that I don't know about. Suffice it to say, I am grateful for every breath I take and every moment I get to enjoy on this planet. I am thankful for all the pain I have experienced in my life. This may seem like an odd thing to be thankful for, but all my experiences have made me the person I am today, so I must be thankful for the pain as well. It is the fastest teacher I will ever know. I am thankful to have found a church that I can call my church family in Harvest Christian Fellowship. I have never felt this way about any church, and it is refreshing to have finally found it.

And back to you, dear friends. I am most thankful for all of you. You keep me grounded, and sane. I know I can rely on my true friends for a kind word, or a hug, or jut a listening ear.  I hope we all stay friends for life. Let's continue to walk's life path together, and take whatever life throws at us in stride. I love all you guys and girls so much! Have a happy Thanksgiving! Just more thoughts from the mind of Crystal.

by: Crystal Nylander