I closed the book and knew that I had to do something different. I began counting the 1000 gifts November 4, 2007 and the number grew week by week. It numbers in the hundreds now, but I have decided to let it stop there.When I finished Ann's book, I knew I had to begin reading it all over again - turning the pages of her heart and taking the words deeply into my own. This is not a book I want to slide into a spot on my bookshelf and go on with business as usual. I know the Lord has spoken something life-changing through Ann's words. I don't want to, as I have with so many really excellent Bible Studies I've completed, forget the bulk of it. It is astonishing to me how little I retain of the things I've thought I could never possibly forget.
Putting into practice what I've learned will help seal it - moving it from my head into my heart. Part of that process, for me, is beginning a new list. It probably won't look any different than the old one, but it will have been written differently nonetheless. It will be written with clearer vision. I have seen gratitude more deeply. It will be the "ink" with which I record the blessings.
My prayer has been - Open the eyes of my heart Lord, that I might see heaven on earth.
#1 - 14
ancient oaks bending limbs in the strong wind - standing firm - roots deeply planted
little doves huddled on the porch rail in the piercing cold; He sees and cares
husband going out into the freezing night to help Mom and Dad with frozen water pipes
snuggling under the warmth of a quilt stitched by loving hands
the sweet fragrance of a lighted candle
learning to play a rhythm chart
sunlight glittering on a blanket of snow
seeing my daughter with new eyes - little girl all grown up
Ann's book - long prayed over, held in my hands, reaching into my heart
sweet email from a precious friend
sunshine across the tiles of the kitchen floor
husband scattering bread for the poor little birds
the incredible blue of the sky
black cat walking slowly, gently through the grass
joining the Gratitude Community today
Blessings,
Linda
16 comments:
The counting of gifts and thanks just seems to naturally flow from who you are, Linda.
You remind me of your Creator.
thankful for you and your expressions of gratitude ...
This is a book to savor, gently fold the words into the recesses of the heart. Now, about that rhythm chart. What instrument? Play on, friend!
As you begin again with your list of love
and thanks, dear Linda, I have today
finished mine. My heart overflows as
I know does yours.
Blessings,
Sandy
You are counted as one of my gifts, Linda.
I know what you mean about Ann's book. I am going through slowly. Not ready to share yet. I watched the bookclub video last night and have to say: I just love that girl! What a gift we have in Ann. I'm so grateful that this book is working on so many hearts, bringing God's grace closer to us all.
Love to you, Linda.
just looking at the cover of this book makes me think that lovely things are inside.
I am savoring every page, Linda...
How blessed I feel to get to know this special woman so many other women of faith and love.
Thank you Linda, for sharing your heart with us too ♥
*love,
Maria
I like how yours are sounding like poem lines. That's where it really starts to grow wings I think. :)
that book is quotable. So profound, so challenging. I know what you mean about taking the LIST SERIOUSLY...now...and that is my prayer too. Open eyes.
Beautiful list Linda. What a sweet husband. Snuggling under an hand stitched quilt is the best! :)
And you, a gift to us. I know you are to me.
I'm always dreadfully behind the pack in reading these books so many are savoring. It will be my turn soon enough, yes?
I haven't done a counting post in a bit,
but it's a part of my life now.
wonderful .
I agree with your post ... I want to savor the message of this book, too, and keep it in my heart and life. And I understand your wanting to start a new list ... this book gives clearer understanding to writing a gratitude list. Makes it come more deeply from the heart.
I guess I need to get the book.
Your list is beautiful. Filled with appreciation for many small joys we so often overlook. Thanks for the reminder to keep my eyes open...
This post moved me deeply. I have not gotten the book yet and know I must. I also know I need to start a journal of thanks. Thanks for giving me a nudge. :)
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