By:  Floralba Arbelo Marrero

Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. (Psalms 103:1 KJV)

I have so much to be grateful for as I reflect upon the year in its entirety. Through the years I’ve learned to have an attitude of gratitude and to find a learning nugget through each experience. It wasn’t always this way, I was a whiner and complainer in my early years but God has taught me to find joy in the journey. I love this time of year because it is refreshing to stop and give thanks to the one who has given it all for us. I don’t believe that mere words can express the thankfulness in my heart for all the Lord has done in my life; images at times can express so much more. So here is my rendition of why I have thanksgiving in my heart – for all He has done for me!

Grateful for my family and all the love we share, the unity we express through bonds of love and togetherness. We enjoy each other so much and draw from one another.

Grateful that my kids were able to spend a week with one of my mentors son’s on the mission field as they co-labored for the Lord. Yet it was better than this, he deposited pearls of wisdom to them all week long, Godly advice and character building in a fun and loving way. Priceless.

Grateful for new friends that have made my life a joy! The time we spend together, between the Beyond the Cover Book Club and girl time in invaluable and has added a rich element to my life.

Thankful for the family vacation we took this summer with 50 friends from Puerto Rico where we were able to reunite for a time of celebration, reminiscing, and the making of new memories in Punta Cana, DR.

Thankful for Save The Nations Church and the Center for Emerging Female Leadership whom have engrafted my family into their fold to worship and grow together.

Grateful for my sisters and their families who make the word family come to life everyday. Their love of life, food, traditions, and of our family are a great blessing. Mom that means you too!

Grateful for out of town friends and family who visit and keep up with us wherever we are.

Grateful for the work I do and have done in the past that improves the lives of students younger and older.

As you review over your year…remember to Just Breathe!

Reflection Corner:

1.)  What are you grateful for this year?

2.)  Have you been able to stay in a grateful mindset?

3. ) Was there a time you were ungrateful?

Please visit Floralba’s blog at momsquire.com on the blogroll on the right!