RevGalBlogPals Friday Five: Think on These Things

Over at Rev Gal Blog Pals, Songbird says:
"Friends, it's nearly Thanksgiving in the U.S. and it's the time of year when we are pressed to name things for which we are thankful. I want to offer a twist on the usual lists and use Paul's letter to the church at Philippi as a model."

Fiinally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8, NRSV)

"Name five things that are true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent or worthy of praise. These could be people, organizations, acts, ideas, works of art, pieces of music--whatever comes to mind for you."

1. Our little cat (actually my mother's cat), Patches, is lying on the desk next to the computer, gazing at me with her round, green eyes as I type. She has a quiet purr, but if I listen I can hear her little contentment motor running. We did not want a cat. We are dog people. My mother wanted a cat. But this little kitty has been a great comfort over this last year, a painful one in many ways. Her soft fur, beautiful face, "princess" demeanor...all have been a pleasure and a gift from God.

2. Music. Isn't music the most amazing gift? I'm listening to a variety of things these days, from praise music to hymns to gospel, classical, jazz, blues, classic rock....music is amazing. This a.m. I woke up to Claire de Lune on the c.d. (alarm). Wonderful.

3. My sweet husband, patient, and loving through it all.

4. Friends and family on the journey with me. What a long, difficult trip it would be without others alongside to cheer us, laugh with us, encourage us.

5. The most wonderful gift this year, of course, precious beyond measure is beautiful little Trinity Ann, the grandchild we thought we would never have, and the bright star in a difficult time. Those are my husbands hands, and hers. She will be one year old on January 7th.