My Thanksgiving décor is limited to a flower arrangement and a “thankful” sign.

It simply reflects the posture of my heart. Even my “thankful” list is uncomplicated — just three things.

I’m thankful for the past. My sister Kay and I decided we won’t become people who long to relive those days gone by. Although the past holds many wonderful memories, there are also times we never wish to repeat.

We are thankful for the good days, appreciate the growth from the bad ones and live in gratitude that God wove them all together for our good.

Next, I’m thankful for the present, the gift of today. I only have this moment, so I’m going to squeeze all the life I can out of every minute, and live in such a way that the people in my life have no reason to doubt my love.

Before most of them even open their eyes in the morning, I have already brought their names before God in prayer.

In addition, today I am going to work diligently to complete the projects I have begun so I can start new ones. This gives me little time to weep over the past or worry about the future.

Speaking of the future brings me to my third area of thankfulness. I am so grateful for the days to come. They are all in God’s hands, and I trust Him.

I commit the unknown future to the well-known God Whose words in Jeremiah 29:11 are quite clear. “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” As the days are revealed, He will provide the wisdom and grace to for each one. I am sure of it.

Ronny Michel can be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.