Today is a special day over at Five Minute Friday: Kate celebrates two years of hosting this fabulous writing group! For the first time ever there will be Five Minute Friday book – and I will be in it! The book will launch sometime in September, stay tuned for more info!
Last week my summer break started.
Six weeks without school, my students or colleagues.
Six weeks without grading papers or planning lessons.
I should be happy.
I am not happy.
There are so many decisions to make about the future, so many uncertainties of where I’ll live in the next few months, so much waiting around. I am terrified and tired of waiting.
I can feel how fear slowly moves through my body until it has settled in my heart and keeps me up at night, worrying about everything and nothing.
Be thankful in all things.
This soft whisper sounds like a mockery in the midst of my situation.
Be thankful in all things.
When I complain to my mom how weary and scared I am because of all the question marks in my life, she tells me to look at all the answers I have already received.
Thank you that I have a job.
Thank you for friends who encourage me.
Thank you for this time of rest and sleep.
Thank you for the beautiful sunshine.
Thank you for the smell of freshly mowed grass.
Thank you for a full table every single day.
Thank you for your faithfulness.
Thank you for all your gifts.
The more I write down or say my thank you’s aloud, the more I feel a difference.
My thoughts refocus from what is missing to what is already there.
My soul can let go of stress and find rest.
My heart is flooded by light that fear cannot stand.
Joy returns.
Gratefulness precedes the miracle.
Ann Voskamp.
thisiskatha.com 
Katha, it’s so easy to let the unknowns invoke fear within us, isn’t it? I’m so thankful God works every detail of our lives out in His perfect timing. These waiting times are opportunities to draw in close to our Abba and listen to His promptings in our hearts.
I loved this: “My thoughts refocus from what is missing to what is already there. ” Yeah, that whole contentment piece plays an important role in happiness too.
Great thoughts!
Thank you, Jeanne! It can be really hard to maintain a healthy outlook, but it’s so needed!
You developed this beautifully, Katha. And with the strength of your spirit and faith, I have no doubt that your future’s gonna be so bright you’re gonna need shades.
#1 at FMF this week.
https://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2016/08/your-dying-spouse-190-mustard-seed-of.html
Thanks, Andrew! What a great encouragement!
Anns boom 1000 gifts really helped me put my blessings into perspective too. I know you have lots of questions friend. But remember the words we hear in scripture so many times “Do not be afraid!” God will be with you. Praying for you. I’m in the 5 spot this week.
Thanks, Tara! This means a lot.
I totally relate to those times of waiting and uncertainty when the fear becomes overwhelming, but changing our focus to the things we have to be thankful for definitely makes a big difference. I love this: “My heart is flooded by light that fear cannot stand.”
Praying for you today as you seek God. Visiting from FMF (#20)
Thank you, Carly!
Neighbours again 🙂 Thanks for the timely reminder that thankfulness is the first step toward happiness. I agree. Trusting with you for direction and answers.
Thank you!