Thankful

A year ago, we were getting Chris settled into our house. He was still reeling from getting dumped and cheated on. A year later, he is about to start a new job with a promising future. He has a wonderful girlfriend. He is happy.
A year ago, Catie and Ben were grieving the loss of their baby. A year later, they are eagerly awaiting the birth of their daughter. While Buddah will always be a part of their lives, Abbey will be the answer to hundreds of prayers.
A year ago, Elliott was dealing with problems that none of us could even imagine, especially since he was afraid to share those problems with us. A year later, he and Samantha have worked out their problems and have a beautiful baby boy. He is waiting to hear about a job with the Huntington Fire Department. Sam is about to graduate from college.
A year ago, Dave was recovering from yet another foot surgery. A year later, he is healthy and has had no problems with his foot.
It's been nearly a year since Thom died. Jenny has done a great job with Donna and John. Thom is watching over them and they will see him again. They will be OK.
Seventeen years after his divorce, Russ has remarried. He has met his match in Nikki. They compliment each other.
By the end of 2008, I could have been ready to give up. Instead, I chose to study God's word and "pray without ceasing". The challenges we face teach us perseverance. Perseverance teaches us patience. Patience will lead to joy. God is ever present. He will never let us face our challenges alone. That thought is what I'm most thankful for.