Fall is definitely here. The nights have become downright chilly. Our children must don jackets or sweatshirts before heading out to meet the bus in the morning. Our friendly “ghostly howl” around the front door is back as the winds have turned northerly and swirl around the entryway. We’re even seeing evidence of FALL COLOR around the pond, with trees showing shades of red, orange, and yellow leaves instead of the usual paper-sack brown we’ve grown so accustomed to (though the color ’round these here parts can’t hold a candle to the glory of a New England fall).
To keep our thin-skinned bodies from becoming overly chilled by the dropping temps, we find ourselves pulling out the thicker blankets, the flannel pj’s, the warm and cozy socks, the chunky sweaters. This year, Matt has received a special gift of a chemo quilt – which is more of a fleecy warm blanket than an actual quilt. And that quilt provides the touchstone for today’s threads of gratitude.
As I admire the blanket’s craftsmanship and design, I am reminded to be grateful for the person who – unknown to me – carefully and lovingly sewed it together, dedicating its use for someone undergoing treatment for a serious illness.
As I feel its softness, I am reminded to be grateful for “softness”…for the compassion and tenderness of friends and family, for those who step in to help and meet needs whether I ask for it or not…for those who – on the spur of the moment – drop in with dinner (you know who you are!!!) or invite the kids for a playdate.
As I wrap myself in its warmth, I am reminded to be grateful for “warmth”…for the fellowship of our church, for the times of laughter and celebration with friends, for the joy of milestones achieved in my childrens’ lives, and for those who share life with us, making our journey warmer along the way.
As I snuggle down into its coziness, I am reminded to be grateful for comfort…for the God who is concerned with me – even the little details of my life – and desires to share my ups and downs with me, for the way He cares for us in our grief, for the hope that we have of being reunited with those who have gone before us.
As I sleep peacefully underneath the blanket, I am reminded to be grateful for rest…for times of renewing and refreshing, for moments that seem to linger in my memory and the joy I have in remembering them, for family time and building those memories together.
Ah, yes, the fleecy blanket. A simple thing reminding me to be grateful for the simple things. May this season of Thanksgiving be an opportunity for us all to reflect on the simple blessings in our lives.