Monique Michel / L’Observateur / November 25, 1998

As Thanksgiving approaches, I think it is important for us to look back on the past year and think about the things for which we are thankful. I amthankful for a loving family and great friends. I am appreciative that I amable to attend a school that I love. My parents have given me pretty mucheverything I’ve ever wanted, including a lot of things I really didn’t need.

A lot of us view ourselves as poor and unhappy because we lack material things. If that’s the case in your life, you are poor. Poor because you don’thave the perspective you should have. The Bible says in Matthew 6:33, “Butseek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” This scripture promises God’s blessings if we livefor Him. I’m not saying that being a Christian makes you rich, it justchanges your perspective on wealth.

Tonight, about 30 miles from my home, in the city of New Orleans, hundreds of people are homeless. I’ve heard it said that two-thirds of theworld goes to bed hungry. Most of us will celebrate Thanksgiving in awarm house, with loving family and friends, eating more than we really should. Let’s not focus on the material things that we still desire, butthank God for the abundant blessings that we enjoy.

Recently, when Honduras was hit by Hurricane Mitch, many people lost everything they owned. However, they were still thankful. They werethankful for their lives. Many people view their good lives as a right, andnot a gift. God’s mercy and love are displayed everywhere throughout ourlives. It is God who gives us our next breath, even though a lot of us ignoreHis presence.

So let’s spend this Thanksgiving season being grateful for what we have, and expressing gratitude to those who mean the most to you. Andremember, live life to the fullest, giving all the glory to God.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to me at (straightkids@juno.com) or P.O. Box 1493, LaPlace, LA 70068.

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