Sentimental Gratitude

Having witnessed over 8 decades of the final days of another year ticking off, 2024 is departing with a comforting aura of sentimental gratitude.  

Sentimental because I’ve somehow survived to attain the stage of life where the trails seem a tad longer; my steps a tad shorter; other hikers a lot younger; and odds are I won’t be planting trees whose shade I’ll sit under . . . unless it’s bamboo 😊

Knowing where my trial finally ends, I’m perfectly content with being a C.O.D. . . . Certified Old Duffer 👴

Gratitude for His mercy and grace which alone have rescued me from devastating rabbit trails I’ve wandered down on my own volition. Unfortunately, life has no Do-Overs, and consequences often pay distressing dividends.

Snuggled in my LaZyBoy, flames flickering in the fireplace, silently reflecting on my countless blessings, the words of a hymn came to mind:

I love You, Lord
Your mercy never fails me
All my days, I’ve been held in Your hands
From the moment that I wake up
Until I lay my head
I will sing of the goodness of God

I love Your voice
You have led me through the fire
And in darkest night You are close like no other
I’ve known You as a Father
I’ve known You as a Friend
And I have lived in the goodness of God

All my life You have been faithful
All my life You have been so, so good
With every breath that I am able
I will sing of the goodness of God

I cued up a YouTube video of an 11-year-old Ethiopian boy who sings these words with a faith that puts mine to shame.  Grab a tissue and be blessed as I was watching it here:

All the Best for All His Best in the New Year!