Thankful and strong.

Today I met a lady that is the human definition, the living example of strength. This sweet lady was keeping to herself, trying on a pair of shoes while enjoying an afternoon of shopping, when she got a call. The person on the other end of the phone called to let her know that a lifelong friend of her's had passed away suddenly. Tears welled up as she told us what happened, along with the story of two other people she loved dying in the past two months. My heart was broken, on the spot. I've never, ever met this lady- and I probably won't see her again, but for a few minutes, the three of us grieved with her. She gave us a glimpse into her life.. and a glimpse at her strength. We each hugged her, promised her our prayers, and she left. But, before she left, she looked the three of us in the eyes and said, "I don't know if you young girls have boyfriends or husbands yet.. but you have mothers. Fathers. Friends. Family. If you love them, just tell them. Remind them that you love them. So much. Things just.. happen"

This Thanksgiving, I hope you hugged who you loved. I hope you smiled.. alot. I hope you had too much turkey and then had to take a three hour nap to feel better. I hope you said I love you to your grandparents. I hope you woke up just to watch Macy's Thanksgiving day parade. I hope you turned on Christmas music.. just because. I hope you said I love you. Alot. Alot, alot. I hope you talked to your bestfriend and told them how much they mean to you. I hope you turned on your favorite song just to dance. I hope you said thank you to the One who created you. I really, really hope you made this Thanksgiving count for more than just calories, naptime or shopping. Because, I promise.. if you let the rest of those things fade away, you're left feeling overwhelmed and full of love. Thankful, if you will.