thanksgiving post

Every year on this blog I have posted a post-thanksgiving post...I guess this year I will be on time. It is hard to believe I am posting about thanksgiving for the 3rd time--that I am in the midst of my 3rd year here in Honduras. What a ride!

The recent elections here in Honduras (almost concurrent with US elections) have been on my mind a lot as the contrast in democratic processes in each country gives me a lot to think about. I just read today that certain members of the "resistance" party running for local office were killed before the primary elections and it continues to make my heart heavy. Not only for the corruption in politics, but what little value is placed on life in this country. It can't help but make me eternally grateful for where I was born and raised, and even for the government and rule of law that I take for granted in the U.S.

But I guess this is getting to heavy for a holiday post, eh?

So, as I think about what I am thankful for this year, many things come to mind. Big things like safety, health and family. And little-r things like having an oven to make a Thanksgiving dessert and a warm down comforter at night when my bedroom is freezing!

I am grateful that I live in a part of Honduras where I can enjoy relative safety as I walk around town, that I can be outdoors in fresh air spaces and enjoy the rural countryside.

I am thankful for new opportunities for growth as I participate in the worship team at my church.

I am thankful for my family and how important they are in my life; that we could share a few days together last month, and that they will be able to visit me very SOON!

I am thankful for my boyfriend Henry and how God is working in our lives as we grow and learn together. And I am thankful he will be able to meet my mom and dad in January (not sure if he feels the same ;)

I am thankful for friends and co-workers in Honduras who enrich my life and help me learn, adapt and enjoy all the ups and downs of my experience here.

It is my hope that everyone reading has a great Thanksgiving, doing whatever it is that warms your heart and helps you take a moment to be thankful for what you have. Enjoy!