I have so many things that I would like to write about.  With only one post in the books you wouldn’t think that I would already have writer’s block.  But I did…

Until about 4 minutes ago.  Yep, that’s when it just hit me: write about gratitude for others.  Seems like a good idea.

My favorite talk that I ever gave (in church) was about gratitude.  That was gratitude broadly.

Today I want to talk about being grateful for people.

I’m not going to list off a bunch of people (I know I would forget so many that should be mentioned).

Some will be obvious, and perhaps there is no way around that, so if you don’t get a deserving nod from me, then hopefully I’ve already told you how thankful I am (for you)!

Obviously we don’t exist independent of others and their actions.  We all needed parents to exist.  First spiritually, then physically.

Dad, Mom, I am thankful for you.

Our parents are with us from the beginning, they lovingly sacrifice for us physically, mentally, emotionally, and continue to do this ’til the day they die, and even after (my mother passed away 13 years ago and you can’t convince me that she is not actively securing help for me).

I get it, not all parents fit the above mold, but most do.  I think that’s why God told us to “honor your father and your mother”.

Children.  I am so lucky to be a father.  Having my two children has given me insight into the meaning of godly love.  This is a love that has no pre-condition.  It just is.  It is also very unique to each individual child.

Similarly, I believe that God loves each individual in a way that is perfect and yet unique to that person.

I have felt that love; it IS perfect and beautiful beyond description.  It’s power is boundless and infinite.

The parent model can be extended up (and ultimately down) generation after generation.  We wouldn’t exist without grandparents, great grandparents, etc.

Beyond life, just how much do we have because of these individuals?

How many of our traditions, our moral values, our technological and infrastructural capital is indebted to the many generations before us?

Not just those immediately related to us, but others throughout history that have been positive benefactors to us all:

Inventors, builders, healers, teachers, risk takers, etc… Look at all of our modern convenience, relative safety, and stability-  Someone, somewhere had a hand it each piece of it.

What about the peacemakers?  How many of us would not even exist if there weren’t peacemakers in this world.

Siblings.  Not everyone has siblings and many turn out just fine without them (perhaps even better, wink-wink).

My Grandpa (mom’s dad) had no siblings, and guess what?  Great man!

However, I myself am a much better person because of my siblings.  They lift me up, they look out for me.  They are kind to me.  They are defensive of me.  I know they love me.  We share so many fond memories.  They make me laugh.  There is a value that is unspeakable.

I try to teach my kids such principles.  You are your brother’s keeper.  Keep your brother!  No refunds!

Even if he’s sometimes an eccentric weirdo like me.  Friends will come and go, but family is forever.

While friends may come and go, true friends will always impact you for good; even if that impact happens in a short timeframe of life.

I have been amazed at how strong, impactful friendships can come about in just minutes.

Some people are so genuinely kind, helpful, empathetic, loving, charitable, and friendly (just to name a few endearing traits) that lasting friendships can spring to life in an instant.

Often by just sharing a thought or kind words.

Others are tried and tested over many years.  I’m grateful for both.  Both can serve vital functions.

Total strangers.

Sometimes just a kind smile, maybe a courteous driver that simply lets you in.  Often the kind people we encounter as customers or professionals (that we may never see or talk to again), but who are genuinely trying their best.  Thank you.

I realize I’m leaving out so many people, I am grateful for many others too.

I’m grateful that you read to the end.  Thank YOU!