It was a great Thanksgiving. People count – 61. Homemade (by the girls and me)roll count – 194. Pie count –34. You get the idea… it was a bountiful feast!
It was everybody’s “on year.” Meaning that nobody was missing, spending the holiday with their in-laws. All of my siblings, except for Aunt Kami in Guatemala, were there with their spouses. All of the Griffith cousins had come- some from out of state. Even sweet cousin Jill, who is fighting cancer, was there to celebrate. Our family has grown through marriages and births, and it was a big, joyful reunion.
As I peeked around that kitchen during the prayer (when my eyes should have been closed,) I felt such a swelling of gratitude. My heart and my eyes overflowed as I thought about the abundance of good things in my life. I am married to my very best friend, who loves me and takes care of me. My children are happy and healthy. They have never known hunger or war. We live in a land of peace and freedom, full of opportunities. I could go on and on.
Crowding into the front room for our traditional singing time, I thought about my Father in Heaven, and what the Book of Mormon calls “the great plan of happiness.” This is exactly what he wants for us. He wants us to feel joy, in spite of all the hard things that happen in life. He wants for our families to be united- to strengthen and support each other. I felt strongly that following His commandments and guidelines is the surest way to be happy. I had to take a little break from singing so I could soak up all that love and happiness!
I am so grateful for all of the blessings in my life. Especially my family. And I picture heaven as a bigger, better, Thanksgiving day!
