Thankful Thursday | left hand/right hand secrets
Before we get into our lists, a small theological diversion, which you can skip if it doesn't interest you!
Last week, we talked about Adam Grant's contribution list idea, and in the comments there was some discussion of Matthew 6, which reads as follows.
1 "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
A literal reading of this passage would tell you that making a contribution list, at least one that others can see, is wrong.
But I don't think it's meant to be taken that way. Consider the verses immediately following:
5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
I have not met a single Christian who takes that passage to literally mean that it is sinful to pray where others can see you. Christians pray in front of other people all the time!
I think if you're gonna read the first part literally, you are obligated to also read the second part literally, and then you're going to need to make sure you always pray in a closet. 😉
I think the point is about motivation. If you are doing good deeds just because you want praise from others, or if you are praying in front of people just because you want to impress others, that's the problem.
But if you make a contribution to the world and you share it with others because you want to share your joy, or you want to share the opportunity with others ("Come volunteer with me!"), that's totally different.
For instance, I will probably always say something about it when I donate blood.
It has nothing to do with patting myself on the back and everything to do with reminding people about the need and their ability to meet it.
If I talk about it, someone else might be inspired to go donate blood, and a life might be saved.
And to me, that is better than donating blood in secret.
Thus endeth my theological thoughts.
Ok, I lied, one more thing: I am not at all saying anyone should feel obligated to adopt Adam Grant's contribution journal idea. You do you!
I'm just saying I don't think this Matthew 6 passage prohibits it.
This week, I am thankful:
that Chiquita usually doesn't mind if I move her to the cat tree
This is not an ideal situation for me:
This is way better:
that there are 24 days left until the final exam
Ohhhh, we are getting so close! By next Thursday, we'll be solidly in the teens. Woohoo!
that I had my last lecture and last sim of nursing school
So many lasts right now! I will never have a lecture at this school. Never another simulation. I never have to do another PrepU!
That feels good, good, good.
that I am not in danger of not passing
Barring some wild disaster, I am virtually guaranteed to pass this semester. I may not get my A, but I will most likely pass the class and graduate.
So I can pretty confidently say that yes, this IS my last lecture, and this IS my last simulation.
for a perfect avocado
I ate it sliced and sprinkled with salt and lime juice. SO GOOD.
that I finished my asynchronous class
We have one class this semester that is entirely online, and we are allowed to work ahead. That's what I did last week, and I got it all done.
So that's one thing off my plate. Whew!
that I have had some practice recording myself
For the social determinants of health presentation, I have to record a voiceover for all of my slides. And I am feeling lucky that I have some practice with this, mainly from doing blog-related videos, like on Instagram.
Another advantage: I have already gotten over the horror of listening to my own voice. Ha.
that the stair climber has a built-in fan
I actually hate the stair climber (as well as all stationary cardio!) but I do appreciate that the machine has a built-in fan.
It lessens the misery. 😉
for two careers that I enjoy
In a recent James Clear newsletter, he wrote this little tidbit:
The 4 qualities of a great career:
- I enjoy it
- I'm good at it
- I make good money
- I’m around fascinating people
This reminded me how very thankful I am for my blogging and medical careers, especially the enjoyment part.
I love blogging and hanging out virtually with all of you interesting people.
And I love working at the hospital and hanging out with all the interesting people there. 🙂
What are you thankful for this week?
P.S. Just a gentle reminder before you comment: while I know politics affect all of us, and people need a place to discuss partisan topics, I do not have the time or energy to host a political discussion because it will inevitably become spicy. So, please be respectful of that as you make your lists.
Two places that do have political discussion included with the frugality: Katy at The Nonconsumer Advocate is a Democrat and welcomes political discussion. And Stacy at Humorous Homemaking is openly on the opposite side of the aisle.
Good Morning!
Today I am thankful for:
My 3 kitties, who always gently greet me when I get home from work. They say cats are aloof, but mine are like a quieter version of puppies, and they look genuinely glad to see me.
Break, which starts tomorrow. I love my job but I could use some rest before all of the end of the year things at school!
My garden. I love love love watching things grow.
This place, which is so positive and encouraging.
@MommaJo,
Lol, our elderly kitty, Lovey, is like your three.....she stays pretty much in our bedroom 24/7, and give gentle burbles of pleasure when you enter the room. She, of course, gently demands that you pet her, so she can flop on her side in bliss. 🙂
@MommaJo, I'm so happy that you have a cat like this! I've always been a dog person because I need a pet that loves me all the time, but your post gives me hope for cats.
I am also in the teens countdown until my students take their exams, woo! This week I'm thankful for:
- Perfect weather: Blue skies, breezy, 70 degrees
- How enthusiastic my freshman are about reading Romeo and Juliet
- All the little seedlings in the garden
- A great community of neighbors
- Full, deep, breaths that fill my lungs and soul
@Hana,
Lucky you! I loved teaching R&J to the freshmen kids. Miss it a lot!
@Hana,
Sadly, my freshman son did not care for Romeo & Juliet.....but, he's not a reader (he can, he just doesn't like to), and I think the "old-timey" language was a barrier for him. His teacher is awesome, so it definitely wasn't her!
Good thinking on providing links for those who do care to talk politics 🙂
This week I am thankful for the praise I received from our customer. It didn't only make my day, but my week.
For the steady rain that we are having after nearly two exceedingly dry months.
For hay fever medication and the online pollen radar.
For a long Easter weekend and the opportunity to meet our friends.
For bird watching on long walks.
For the inspiration of our new choir repertoire, and the relaxed joy of singing familiar works.
Whoo! You’re getting so close!!
This week I am thankful for safe (and on-time!) travels as we did a special bucket list trip to celebrate our 50th anniversary. We traveled with a tour group through The Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland. The scenery was amazing, food was delicious and the company was (mostly) delightful! And also thankful that I am almost over the dreaded jet lag!
@Addy, sounds like a wonderful trip! I've been to some of those places and they are just amazing. And the history is wonderful to see.
I am thankful my annual mammogram is done, the results were delivered very quickly, and nothing of concern was found.
I am thankful for lilacs. I have a small vase full of them on my kitchen counter. They smell wonderful.
I am thankful for continued good health. I am also thankful for my new PCP. He seems like a very good doctor and comes highly recommended by several friends.
I am thankful for spring. The light, the flowering everything, the green, the relative warmth. I am also thankful for the rain we've had. I know how crucial it is.
@K D, Yes to lilacs! I was at my doctor's house this week, and at first I didn't notice them, but suddenly! That smell! I did a cartoon double-take!
@Jody S., lilac season is a good month away where I live (Michigan). Something to look forward to!
@Kris, Yes! Two years ago (I think) we went to Minnesota/Michigan from Maryland when we were picking up our son from college, and it was like spring all over again.
I am thankful that I found an amazing cross fit class to attend 3 days away. It's for people over 50 and it's to help us get our muscles moving and to help keep our minds young. Also not a lot of stress on your body - you get what you put into it. And that my boss lets me go to these classes. Loving the exercises, the coach, and the other people that go.
Thankful that 2 people have offered me part time jobs when I retire next year. But they want my resume now! So it has motivated me to work on it.
Thankful for my pets and that they show their unconditional love towards us.
Thankful that the weather is looking promising this weekend for some bike riding. My husband wants to ride 69 miles on his 69th birthday next week, so we gotta be ready. It might take us all day, but that's OK, we'll do it. As long as it is not raining!
And thankful that my husband called his cousin last night. She lost her husband (one of his closest friends growing up) to cancer last Friday and he really has been heartbroken over it. I rarely see my husband get emotional, but last night he did. I'm glad that she will be having a memorial for him in June and we will be there to share stories of him.
I've been a reader since the beginning and rarely comment but I want to say I am thankful for the peaceful place you provide. I don't know your stance on the issues or who you voted for and I love it! We all need respite from the endless hate from both sides. So thank you Kristen for providing such a calm place.
@Molly, yes this! So nice to see people supporting each other and looking for common ground here in a kind way.
@Molly, I've often thought that one of the **many** reasons this blog is so valuable is that it provides commenters on both sides of the political fence a place to meet on friendly terms. We don't have nearly enough of that these days.
Kristen, you've articulated the heart of that passage so well. Thanks for being willing to clarify a potentially difficult topic with so much grace and wisdom! I couldn't agree more with everything you've said.
Today I'm thankful for:
- my home; I just looked at the winning photographs from the year on BBC and almost every single one shows people in war zones. I take it for granted that I live in a safe home in a safe town in a safe country.
- I recommended a book at a ladies Bible study a few weeks ago and yesterday someone reached out to say they had purchased the book and how much they love it. It gave me a boost to validate my appreciation of the book AND that someone took the time to follow up.
- A long weekend. We get Friday and Monday off for Easter here in Canada.
- For my robot vacuums. I have two running right this second and I'm excited to have cleaner floors at the end of the hour!
- For some fun summer plans coming together.
@Elisabeth, any chance you'd share the title of that book you recommended and got good feedback on? Thanks!
@Elisabeth, OF COURSE I want to know which book you recommended. 😎
This week I am thankful for:
Planes. My husband and I planned a short vacation out west. As we were on the runway, our son called to say he was headed to the ER. We flew to the connecting airport and we're able to catch a flight within 2 hours back to our home city.
My sister. She stopped everything to take her nephew to the hospital and stayed with him in the ER until we arrived.
Hospitals. The doctors and nurse in the ER were/are wonderful. Our son has a chronic disease which flares up every now and then. This was his first time in the adult hospital and the care has been spot on.
Time. While these days have not been as anticipated, I get to spend time with my son. He lives on his own now and being able to sit with him amd just be in the moment has been a gift.
Maturing. It has been a delight to watch this boy take charge of his health and to advocate for himself and his disease. His condition is rare. These moments are giving him space to teach others, medical professionals and his colleagues, about it and the fact that people can live productive lives with it.
@MH, good luck to you and to him. That must've been scary and tense and disappointing. I'm glad it's turned out ok so far.
@MH,
Tell your son I hope he gets well real soon, and that he's feeling much better by now. Sorry about your vacation plans, but glad you got to be there with him.
@MH, scary times all around. But I'm glad you were able to get some thankfuls out of the experience. And I wish your son, you, and your husband all the best.
Thankfuls …
- Last night, I finished installing the new fencing around my north garden. One thing off my checklist.
- So far, it’s keeping my dog out. Fingers crossed!
- After a couple weeks on the waitlist, I’m now officially on the schedule for next week for the fence people to replace my broken fence posts and put everything back together. I’ll be very happy to be able to use my gate again!
- It’s a three-day weekend for the kids. Three days in a row of not getting up at 6 🙂
- I’m looking forward to watching my kids find their eggs on Easter. They aren’t so little anymore, but I enjoy the experience.
@JenRR,, Like you, I am thankful my fencing project is completed! Unlike you, I am not in the least thankful the contractor accidentally cut the line for my home telephone/landline/internet. Or that the phone company won't be out yo fix it until Monday.
@JDinNM, "to", not "yo". I'm not in Philly any more.
@JDinNM,
Oh my goodness, that was hilarious! My DH78 left Philly 60 years ago and only says "yo" if he really needs to get someone's attention.
@JDinNM, Oh no. How annoying! I hope you don’t have anything crucial that you need the phone line and internet for while you wait for it to be fixed. Thank goodness for mobile phones, so you can still have phone contact with people!
@JenRR,, You are absolutely right! Mobile phones to save the day (and several other days). But I also have an office sharing arrangement and was able to spend a couple hours this afternoon dealing with emails and returning phone calls and sending out client bills.
Today, I'm thankful that the sun is back out. We had what I *hope* is our last snowy day of the season yesterday. No accumulation, but depressing all the same.
And I'm **extremely** thankful for the home care aide that my NDN has gotten to know and trust. Yesterday, she persuaded NDN into (a) having a shampoo and (b) getting a load of laundry done! I’m over the moon!
Home care people are miracle workers sometimes, aren't they??
@Kristen, well, it depends on getting the right home care person. The first two the agency sent didn't work out so well. But we all kept trying, and it appears that "third time's the charm."
I am thankful for:
Both my children will be home from university for a little bit!
I love my job (second career RN). I am valued and valuable to both the units that I work on.
I am healthy and can move my body.
We are at a point where we are not overly stressed about money (it helps when the world is so uncertain).
Good food!
@Ali M, certainty about the world at any time is merely an illusion. However, I share your gratitude for finally being at a point in life of not stressing over money.
You and your lovely blog.
Aww, I am delighted to be on your thankful list. 🙂
I agree with the "motivation at the core" thought.
There are times that I share on FB about ways I'm involved in collaboration or community ministry and I refer to it as a Hebrews 10:24 post.
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Sometimes I stop and ask myself, "Is this because you want likes and comments or because you're genuinely overflowing with gratitude and awe at people and God working together to do cool things and you want to share it and inspire others?"
In a world where we are overwhelmed with heavy news and hear the bad side of human nature so much, sometimes we need to be encouraged by hearing about when people love on others.
I had to have a tooth pulled this week and I'm thankful that the experience was not as bad as I had feared.
That both my dogs got good reports on their health when they had their annual check-ups.
That even though it was an expensive week (see dentist and vet bills, above) I had the money to pay the bills.
For friends who lift me up.
For my caring husband.
@Cindi,
I hope the Tooth Fairy comes and rewards you real good. LOL!
@Fru-gal Lisa, I guess I should have asked the dentist for the tooth so I could put it under my pillow!
- I'm thankful this space is non-political and avoids all the acrimonious comments found across the internet
- I'm thankful we got to babysit grandson on Saturday night. It's always a joy to spend time with him.
- I'm thankful that DD is almost done with his classes this semester. He's doing a better job keeping up and feeling less anxious this semester.
- I'm thankful that I have enough personal leave to take off work when I'm not feeling well.
- I'm thankful for all the beautiful multi-color bearded irises blooming in our yard right now.
@Beverly, this blog is indeed a relief from the acrimony across the airwaves.
I would LOVE to see all your bearded iris! Very few of mine bloom, in spite of having been divided. But my Dutch iris are stunning right now—that deep blue-violet color is magnificent.
I recently changed my email quote below my signature. It reads, "do the right thing, for the right reason", which I think helps support the scripture above. My little two cents. Also, I recently started a gratitude journal, because my journal efforts up to that point were making me hang onto anger. Time to switch the focus of it! Things to be thankful for this week include:
*that first perfect cup of coffee in the mornings, which are generally the most peaceful time of my day
*a job that rewards me in so many ways, not just monetarily
*the great weather we are having and a few days off in a row to enjoy it outside, taking care of my yards
That's the same interpretation of those passages that I've always heard and I've always believed that is what it means. Thank you for including that!
My thanksgivings:
1. Thanks for reminding us not to get political. I've quit reading and contributing to blogs because of politics before. I hear enough of that everywhere else!
2. My sister's visit is coming to an end this week, but I'm thankful we got to have a good visit. I'm also thankful that the recent needle biopsies on her thyroid nodules revealed they are still benign.
3. I'm thankful to have my youngest daughter and her daughter come over to eat with us tomorrow evening.
4. I'm thankful to host the family Easter lunch this year. It will include my son-in-law's family, with whom we've always been on good terms. It will be work, of course, but I enjoy doing this and my daughters will cook the side dishes and my s-i-l's mother is bringing a dessert. I will only have to cook a dessert and a ham.
5. Thankful that, although we don't have the day off for Good Friday, which I've never had off at any job anywhere, my employers don't have any problem with me attending the noon Good Friday service at church, even though it means my lunch hour runs a little long.
@JD, So grateful your sister's thyroid nodules were benign. I have had needle biopsies twice. They are no fun even with the most skilled of hands.
Haha! That first picture of you and Chiquita looks like you’re about to backhand her onto the cat tower.
Haha, well, if she sits on the "delete" button in the middle of what I'm working on, I do feel annoyed.
It has always irked me a bit when donors insist on putting their names in huge letters on a building. Wouldn't a simple plaque be enough? Oh well...
This week I am grateful for:
1. Finally getting a group of dental appointments set up. I had forgotten about them since they were not emergencies. I'm good about keeping appointments once I make them so now I know it will all be taken care of.
2. My check-up and cleaning at yesterday's appointment went well. The hygienist was gentle and the doctor had a good chairside manner. A practitioner who really listens is the best.
3. The lilac scented soap I treated myself to arrived yesterday and it smells just like the real thing!
4. Getting to celebrate Easter with my brother. He makes a delicious lemon cheesecake pie.
5. It's ramp season again. Mmmm...so good!
@AnnieH, what is “ramp season”?
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, I'll chime in until AnnieH. can do so. Ramps are a type of wild onion. They grow in woodlands. You eat the leaves, the tender stalks, and the petite bulb. Festivals are dedicated to ramps. You can buy them at farmers' markets. The season is short. We often fry them up with eggs or potatoes. Ramps are delicious.
@AnnieH, ramps are sooooooo good!
@Molly F. C., We heard stories that sometimes kids were sent home from school during ramp season because they reeked so badly! I love ramps, but I hate that they seem to become such a big gourmet hit because the volunteer fire companies (where I grew up) used to be the ones who profited by the ramp dinners. I think more land owners are capitalizing on them now.
@Molly F. C., Yes! We especially loved them with potatoes.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, Molly F.C. said it well. Here in the Northeast they are in season from April through early May. Ramps cannot be cultivated so they are in somewhat limited supply, but as Jody S. touched on, more land owners who happen to find them are taking advantage of their trending popularity so we see them in more places. We buy from local farmers at our farmer's market.
To me they taste like a cross between garlic and onion. They can be eaten raw, but we like them best sautéed with a little butter and served over potatoes. Some folks roast them as well.
Thankful that there was no rain this week and after weeks of mud in the front yard, the final grading was able to be done Monday and hydroseed was done yesterday. Hopefully, I will have grass soon! Woohoo. Either way, yard projects are DONE for now!
Thankful my family is coming for Easter. My older son and DIL both have birthdays this week so we will celebrate them also during Easter lunch.
Thankful that the motion activated sprinklers seem to be working for the deer that were eating my blackberry plants. They ate them to the ground twice. These have worked great at keeping them from this one part of the yard.
Thankful for all the bulbs that the previous owner put in the yard and all the flowers this spring. Every day is something new. (Not thankful for all the ivy that spread unchecked for years....if anyone has any tips for combating ivy, please let me know).
Thankful to see hummingbirds show up. We seem to have a couple that are living in the trees out back that visit all throughout the day, but we really enjoy watching them during supper each night.
@Marlena,
Thank you for the reminder about the hummingbirds.....I need to make up some nectar, and get my feeders out!
1. That the person who did not give me &50 for the gift card, was not st knitting this week. This gives me a little more time to react how I choose (letting it go now that I found a way to share what happened without saying who) instead of how I feel.
2. My dog, who jumps up on my bed every morning and lies next to - and sometimes on - me. So. Stinking. Cute.
3. That a family member is on the upswing. It's been a long school year for them, and honestly for me as well, as I help them deal.
4. For all the conveniences of modern life: running hot water, garbage pickup, electric, all of it. Poor Puerto Rico.
5. Books! And local stores! My area has a lot of them including a new bookstore. I try to buy something each time I go. Yesterday I started my latest purchase, history of the decipherment of cuneiform. So far , so very good.
6. That my friend Kirsten is so close to the finish line and is going to pass thru with flying colors.
Great explanation of the Matthew passage. Thanks!!
I always enjoy reading all of these posts and leave feeling better about everything.
I’m thankful that the cousin I am closest to who lives on the opposite coast made a point to stop by with her Hubby before heading off on their vacation. We haven’t been together since before the pandemic and long distance communication is great but not the same.
My DIL & son are comfortable asking for our help with the kids when their schedules cause challenges. We moved close to be able to be hands on grandparents and to build a closer relationship with all of them and it has worked well.
Kind neighbors who have made us feel welcome and whom we are enjoying getting to know better as time passes.
Lovely Spring weather which has made getting out on walks more enjoyable.
Both of us having mostly emerged from the stresses of moving and fixing up the house we bought. I am glad we are resilient because moving several times in retirement means leaving friends and meaningful activities that are hard to replace.
@Juhli, a hearty YES! to moving closer to help with the grandchildren. We did the same, even though it was very hard to leave our home state of KY. Thankfully, we have also landed in a great neighborhood & love spending time with our family.
I'm thankful for:
- My squash plants growing (other plants are growing too, but the squash is doing the best).
-My husband's job
- My ebay listings, I'll admit I'm discouraged nothing has sold, but I'm thankful for my inventory and things ready to sell.
- My mother-in-law buying a house, and it's a cute one she loves!
- Flexibility of homeschooling
- Wild desert flowers!
- Good books
I agree with your thoughts about giving. I teach my kids that giving is done to help others, not to make yourself look good.
Funny that you bring this thought up, as teen has 1 last scholarship application to finish & teen essay is about how helping others has affected you (which teen is struggling with this).
Thankful TAX DAY is over & wrap up yesterday was not difficult. Now I'm officially unemployed & looking for another job.
Thankful for the sunshine!
Thankful for rescue dogs who are just so loving to us. 🙂 <3
Thankful that we have only have to pick up few items for Easter (this weekend). I have been buying items on sale ahead of time (my prepared & frugal qualities that are heavily engrained in myself). Looking forward to getting ready for time spent with teen & rescue dogs.
Thankful my Aunt has been making friends at new apartment & adjusting to more time to do walking & time with friends.
Thankful my dad is taking radiation treatment difficulties with a grace & good sense of humor. This last week every day his radiation machine has quit part way through his treatment cycle & they have to shut down & reset the machine. The extra time with the balloon & extra fluid causes additional pressure on his organs sometimes making it harder to make it through treatment without needing to go to restroom or have an accident. All the medical staff are supportive & go with his sense of humor about wanting a different machine.
Thankful for Kristen & her blog where we can learn & share with each other.
Have a great weekend & Happy Easter!
This week I am thankful:
*for Holy Week. For the reason behind Holy Week.
*for a chance to spend the day with my eldest daughter. It was lovely.
*for my face therapists. This week one helped my daughter with some jaw issues. I wanted to take care of that before it became a big problem, and I was so pleased with how it was handled.
*for pretty flowers and warming temperatures.
*for eggs from our chickens. They give us at least 3 distinct colors, and I love that.
*that I decided not to do school this week. It makes the stress level go down during a busy week. For the flexibility to not do school. That all of the kids did some school on their own anyway and didn't complain when I wanted to do school with them.
*for an upcoming field trip with friends.
*for the bouquet of my favorite daffodils that middle daughter picked and arranged for my table.
*that our electricity came back on before it was supposed to yesterday. For electricity. And running water. And reliable heat.
*that my daughter found something gross on the floor, picked it up, and didn't go into complete hysterics. (It was a mouse leg?! It must have come in on a shoe?! Maybe the outside cat left a little gift on the rug?)
*that I have a child young enough to enjoy playing with boxes. The current ones are on the living room floor, and I am loath to make her get rid of them because-- what if this is the last time?!
*for no politics, coffee, bacon dipped in egg yolks, my youngest son talking like a man with his coach, crazy crocheted monsters, girls giggling/cracking up over history of fashion books when they turn to the '70s and '80s sections, and spring bulbs.
@Jody S.,
You have to admit, fashion from the 70s and 90s IS pretty hilarious. What were we thinking? 🙂
@Liz B., The only thing that kept me from big hair was the fact that my hair wouldn't do it. But I tried! (I guess big hair isn't clothing, but still...)
1. Thankful that my Social Security deposit was deposited yesterday. Whew! (I went by the ATM just to make sure.) Finances aren't so scary with a SS check each month.
2. For getting to substitute teach, and also that we have had testing this week, so easy duty.
3. Holy Week services at church.
4. Neighbors down the street have block parties several times a year, and Saturday is one of them. So much fun!
5. Air conditioning!
It has been so fun to watch your journey at nursing school, Kristen! And, you're in the home stretch!
1) Loved that my two teens went on a day trip to hike this week (spring break).
2) For a slew of gorgeous days, all in a row. This leads to increased steps, sitting outside for lunch & just general happiness.
3) Thankful for our freezer, which allows us to store leftovers. I pulled out grilled chicken last night, and added some Trader Joes samosas, & an easy dinner was ready in 15 minutes. It also reduces waste, of course, which is another win.
4) I was able to finish both teens tax return, despite not receiving their W2s until the evening of the 13th. Both were initially rejected on the 14th, one was rejected by the state on the 15th, but I was able to correct everything & get it resubmitted by the deadline. Hurrah! I did not appreciate the tight timeline, but I made it.
5) That my parents are amazing. They have offered to come to our house so that we can do a mini getaway of some sort soon. It's been a really challenging few months, and DH & I desperately need the time away. We will lock in on dates soon, but having parents who are so flexible, who your kids really, really want to spend time with. And, my mom will inevitably deep clean my house, because she just can't help herself. 😉
I'm thankful for my new knee that lets me enjoy the walks with the dogs.
I'm thankful for my large extended family even when there are challenges; more to help sort it out.
I'm thankful for friends that include me in trivia nights.
Best of luck as you study and prepare for your career.
So much to be thankful for this week!
• Last week I was a four hour plane ride from home, working on an event that takes years of planning, and it felt like everything fell apart at home: my grandma fell and broke her femur, my puppy was sent home from bootcamp because he got sick, and my mom was put into the hospital (no one told me about mom until I got home). Thankfully my family pulled together and took care of business – lots of phone call updates and texts, great medical care, and two out of three patients are recovered!
• I spent the weekend with my grandma in her long-term care facility. She’s in a great mood and the staff is wonderful. Her break was a clean break. She is an active 88-year-old so we are hopeful that she will be back to chair yoga, hosting mahjong, and attending bible study by the end of summer.
• My mom dog-sat so that I could visit grandma. She’s feeling better and we talked over some ways to prevent what put her in the hospital.
• Puppy is back to normal. He was eating mulch and that caused him to get sick. We’ve talked to a landscaping company about removing all the mulch in backyard and replacing it with stone.
• I missed seeing my son when I got home because he left right away for a tournament as soon as I got home. He wasn’t expecting his team to do well because the tournament is for highschoolers and half of his team (including him) are in eighth grade. They ended up doing MUCH better than expected and he said the best part was spending time with his team.
• My event went amazingly. I heard feedback from attendees all week about how great this year’s event was! I also just really enjoyed myself. The event was in a beautiful city by the ocean, my coworkers were fun to hang out with, and it was great to see my hard work pay off.
• I was worried about walking 20k+ steps a day at my event, but what I learned in physical therapy and the tools the therapist gave me worked well.
• The weather has been beautiful since I returned home so I’ve been able to take the dog on long walks where I’m starting to see signs of spring.
@Geneva, what a week you had. I hope everyone is on the mend.
@Geneva, If it’s easy to share and you wouldn’t mind, I’d love to know what tips your therapist gave you to walk 20k+ steps. I’m in a similar position as you, and any help is most appreciated. Thanks!
To me the important words in the quote, “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them”, are the words, “to be seen by them”.
I believe there are people who do good deeds because they want others to see them and praise them for it. If no one is looking, then they don’t see the point in doing the good deeds. The quote is saying that god knows the difference between goodness and posing. Speaking of “posing”, I believe there are a lot of people who go to church and wave their bibles around, yet their behavior is not Christian. That’s another example of practicing righteousness just to be seen.
In these troubling times, when our leaders are modeling terrible behavior, I worry about the message it’s sending our young people. It appears that lying, stealing, cheating, and disregarding the rules are all OK. If someone wants to model some good behavior, then I’m all for it!
I’m thankful for the glorious weather we’ve been having, that I found some good bargains at the grocery store this week, and that some major farm tasks got done. I’m also grateful that my kids have good heads on their shoulders and understand the evil that is happening in this country.
@Ann on the farm, I think I will be re-reading The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. Such a clear example of how to live in a way that honors Jesus during a horrible time in history.
@Kris, I just read that for the first time this Lent, and what struck me is how even before the ten Boom family helped Jews during the Holocaust, they were doing small acts of love and care to those around them every day--it was just a habit of living with them, so that when everything got horrible, they didn't question how to live, it came naturally!
@Kris, that sounds like a good read. Thanks for the recommendation.
I am thankful for you and your blog. I don't usually comment, but I thoroughly enjoy your blog and your life journey. I am applauding you in your nursing classes. When/if I end up in the hospital at some time, I would like to have someone like you for my nurse.
Also, you make me a better person because of your outlook on life, thank you.
Aww, that means a lot to me. Thank you!
As a Jew, I can't say that I love reading Christians talking about "hypocrites in synagogues." We don't find it problematic for people who give to be praised, because it can encourage other people to contribute, and emphasizes that contribution is praise-worthy. You might find it interesting to read about the eight levels of charitable giving in Judaism, here: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/eight-levels-of-charitable-giving
We emphasize giving cheerfully, before it is needed, giving in a way that preserves the dignity of the recipient, and supporting people in achieving independence, so that they no longer need charitable funds.
@Meira (meirathebear.wordpress.com), thanks for the link. Very thought provoking.
I don't mean this to be defensive so please don't take it that way: I don't think as a Jew himself, Jesus was saying that everyone in a synagogue is a hypocrite. I think he was just calling out the ones in the synagogues who ARE hypocrites. It's not a criticism of Jews or people in synagogues; it is a criticism of hypocrites. And as we know, hypocrites are pretty easy to find in every religious institution, no matter the type!
Good Morning! I'm so happy for you. Cheering you on as you cross the finish line!
This week, I am thankful for:
- My youngest daughter. We celebrated her birthday yesterday and we're so blessed to have this sunshine in our lives.
- My 2 lady friends at church. I can't help but give them each a big bear each time I see them.
- The chance to get some things done and cross off my to do list. It always feels like there's so many things to do but so little time. I'm grateful for whatever gets done.
- Time spent with family. My mother and sister in law are coming to stay with us for a bit. That'll give us an opportunity to spend some time with them. It'll also be fun to celebrate birthdays and easter with them.
- Answered prayer. I love knowing that we have a God who loves us, listens and cares about us very much.
My list today is just responses to what you wrote.
1. Excellent explanation of those left hand/right hand verses. Brings to mind Proverbs 16:2—“All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord."
2. When I move a cat, he gives me the hairy eyeball and immediately jumps down.
3. What is the black design in the black frame behind Chiquita’s tree?
4. 24 days is NOTHING after all you have endured. . . I sense giddy anticipation here, and rightly so.
5. Salt and lime on an avocado reminds me the song “Jose Cuervo, you are a friend of mine; I like to drink you with a little salt and lime”. . . I don’t drink, but I love country music from the ‘80s! (That was Shelly West in case you are curious)
6. It is fun to see how useful life experiences (i.e. blogging, video-taping, etc.) are in other parts of life.
7. The fan on the stair climber would help. I am with you on a severe dislike of stationary cardio, and actually, on all machinery designed for exercise. Our lives are so cushy physically that we have invented ways to maintain fitness, but frankly, I’d rather take a vigorous walk or swing an ax.
8. Your discipline in all areas of life is quite remarkable.
9. James Clear is so very very very intelligent and practical. “Atomic Habits” sits on my table, ready to be explored, and yet I keep picking up other books, mostly fluffy fictional escapism.
10. My life is wonderful, a thankful list would be endless, and yet I am choosing to escape through fiction. . . what in the world is wrong with me??
THANK YOU for your consistent thoughtful and thought-provoking posts, my virtual blogging friend!
P.S. I have 3 of the 4 qualities of a great career, only lacking in making good money, which is one of my main reasons for frugal living.
I am thankful for:
*Snow today - yes, SNOW! I am thankful it is only supposed to be for today, and tomorrow we should return to more traditional spring weather. It will help me appreciate the sunshine even more!
*My adorable fur-babies. They bring so much joy and love to our home.
*Making progress on a big project.
*The season of Lent, especially this Holy Week, to help me focus on, give thanks for and rejoice in Jesus' victory over death.
*That today is my Friday!
I agree with your Matthew 6 summary. When I first read the title for today, I thought you were going to discuss dominant vs non-dominant hands. 🙂
The weather has been crazy wacky lately, so I'm very grateful for sunshine. Thankful for having the money available to purchase a new dryer when ours died on Saturday. Even more thankful that it was able to be delivered and hooked up 3 days later (initially the estimate was 2 weeks .... I know that I can live without a dryer, but I do hate hate hate hanging things up to dry, whether inside or outside. Don't judge me!). Thankful for the opportunity to go hiking with a friend in a little bit. For my quarterly meeting with my boss (who happens to be new)--it was a positive experience and I think I'll enjoy working for him. For my daughter getting a long weekend--I'm picking her up in a few hours. Yay!
Today I'm thankful:
1. That my husband got his bloodwork done and is taking his health seriously. First time I've seen him motivated to make positive changes in a long time.
2. For feeling sore from my workouts this week. It means I'm pushing myself, getting stronger and further, that I have an able body. It's a weird thing but I like feeling sore.
3. For the the tiny people I've interacted with over the last few weeks. I held a friend's newborn son for a while at dinner the other day and we had some friend families come to our home who have toddlers. They are all so crazy and so, so, so precious in their own ways.
4. For a good night's rest after what feels like a long streak of restless nights. Somehow I could still use another hour, though!
5. For Trader Joe's for having beautiful flowers at an affordable price. I spent something like $6 for some bright flowers that bring me delight whenever I walk into my family room. If anyone has any leads for nice vases for reasonable prices, holler! I broke a vase last week and now I'm on the hunt for a simple but nice replacement.
@CrunchyCake,
Goodwill (or other thrift stores) and garage sales usually have lots of vases and such! I also repurpose glass (or clear plastic) bottles and jars as vases.
@CrunchyCake, My friend who volunteers at Habitat ReStore, says they never have enough room on the shelves for all of the vases they receive as donations. Especially after Mothers' Day or Easter.
@ErikaJS, @Fru-gal Lisa, Thanks! Great suggestions. I've been wanting to make a trip to the Habitat ReStore so this gives me a nudge to go to it.
@CrunchyCake, I agree! I just discovered the great flower prices at TJ's recently and have bought 2 bunches of daffodils and 1 bunch of tulips over the last few weeks...so cheerful to look at!
@Kristen I am in total agreement on the Matthew passage. I think that if the heart of your giving is to show off to others then the heart is missing and that is what he refers to. I don't think that it is wrong to speak of tithing or volunteering and encourage others to do the same. I think the error lies in boasting about it - "I gave $50K to the church!"...nope. More "I have enjoyed seeing the blessings God has provided when we are faithful to the spiritual discipline of tithing. Have you considered making this a part of your spiritual walk?"....yep. Just my two cents 🙂
Thankful for a lovely, CLEAN, Christian, small personal care home found for my loved one where I know she will receive the care she needs and I can visit, bring goodies, take her to church as long as she is able, etc.. This is a gift I never imagined I would need and it is priceless.
Thankful for beautiful weather.
Thankful for the way God made me and all the gifts he gave me. I care for lots of people, I have joy in hospitality, I love to serve. I am seeing countless areas in my life where the need for these giftings is tangible and it fills me up in a way that I cannot begin to express.
Thankful for a lovely comfortable home filled with people and dogs that I love and am blessed to be able to care for and sow into.
Thankful for this Holy week and Resurrection Sunday ahead...literally the greatest celebration that we will ever know earthside and my heart is so very full of gratitude.
Thank you for your level headed approach. The world is not black and white and neither are we! Much love to you Kristen!!
@Caitlie, oh! and im thankful for:
-My cat and dog, the cat is crazy right now 🙂
-A cloudy day after some serious early heat last week!
-For my self reflection and gods grace and i age. I’m having some serious internal struggles with my people pleasing tendencies and my parents. I’m grateful for the ability to grow and heal.
-for my garden! I just planted our parkway with drought tolerant plants and it makes me so happy!
-for my kids, and husband 🙂
In AA we talk about service work but only as a model for others searching for peace. We take sobriety chips in meetings not to gloat or receive praise but to show newcomers that it is possible.
My biggie gratitude today is my son got his first "real" job as a mechanical engineer working in the Midwest. He didn't want to return to California because he wants to make a life on his own. It is nearly impossible to do that in California right now. The median price house where he is moving is 159,000. Where we live it is 500,000.
I also post things, so others are aware, not to be bragging. A good, local restaurant; a fundraiser in which I believe and things like that. A local restaurant had a hiccup and got some bad reviews. I know this place and have always had good experiences so I am sure to always post them to remind people.
Expressing values and standing up for them isn't always political and doesn't have to be acrimonious, just my two cents. Standing by in the face of injustice inevitably hurts the victim and helps the bully. I'm sorry to say I doubt that this blog accords with my values any longer. I do wish you the very best.
The difficulty is that these things so frequently become acrimonious and unproductive when discussed online, unless the discussions are taking place in an echo chamber. Activism in the form of managing and moderating discussions about politics here on my blog is more than I can take on right now (and is also probably not the most helpful form of activism for me anyway). So that's why I have this boundary.
I would hazard a guess that you and I share similar distresses about the current state of things. But I totally understand if you don't feel comfortable here, and I too wish you all the best.
@Kristen,
That is a very gracious reply which I appreciate. I do understand your position and I am glad that you respect mine.
@Kristen, your gentle reply is so very gracious. Makes me want to hang around here all the more.
I am not Christian - but like much of the Bible (or other Holy books), this resonates - especially in this time of commodifying "kindness" on social media. I think it is a basic truth that being kind or generous is good for the soul - no need for an audience.
Thursday thanks:
For my patient piano teacher.
For the baby leaves all over the garden.
For my meds for high blood pressure—no more headaches!
For my sweet, formerly feral cat, who brought presents last night after I had gone to sleep and meowed demanding thanks!
For delicious leftovers for lunch.
I am glad you took the time to break down the Matthew quotes.
I am not a fan in general of anyone who uses the Bible as a backup for whatever it is they are talking about but I respect that it means something to others.
But I do believe some folks take it way too literally.
Never, ever in reading anything you have written or spoken about, do I see you bragging. It is just so not you. You are sharing a way to help. Celebrating a positive experience. Encouraging others to help where they can.
You are not a braggart or an egotist. Nope, NOT Kristen at all.
Oddly enough, many Christians who use the bible in their lives are suddenly seeming to have forgotten what it says as regards certain behaviors we are witnessing at the top levels of our government. All I'm going to say.
This week I am even more grateful for the community of advocates at Caring Majority Rising, an advocacy group helping to ensure that I and hundreds of thousands of others can continue to get the needed health care that we have previously gotten through a particular statewide program. The governor has changed companies and it has been a total and utter disaster, with people losing the services of their health aides, being stuck in bed and cannot get out to eat, dress or toilet. Aides have had to quit because they are not being paid.
The only reason I haven't totally lost my mind is because Caring Majority has done so much work on our behalf to protest, bring lawsuits, seek solutions...and, as importantly, created what we call our Watercooler Sessions, twice a week, where all the participants in this CDPAP program can come together to share concerns, solutions and success stories. To take action in contacting government reps to ask for their help and support. The individuals who participate each night, include experts in labor law, health administration, etc.
We end each session with a reminder that I post: HOPE is action. (Learned several months ago in my women's cancer support group when a truly terrific speaker talked about what is and isn't hope. Being hopeful, and I'm paraphrasing a bit here, she said is not about being optimistic that all will be OK, or being a Pollyanna. No, she said. Hope is the action you take, whatever you can do, and there is always something to do. Hope is also asking for help and giving help. It's a reminder that no matter our circumstances, we are not victims. (This is especially relevant in this situation where we have no choice but to end our relationship with the current company that has provided great service to me personally for almost ten years, along with my aide, to go with a company that only created problems by total incompetence in delivering services. Many Many Many problems in all areas.
If you live in NYState and anyone you know, love or care about is currently in a CDPAP program that has to transition to PPL company...contact me for information on how to get them help with any issues in signing on and getting their PAs (personal assistants as they are called but they are performing as home health aides) enrolled.
We have been joined by legal associations, and other organizations, AARP for example, to put pressure on this company, PPL, to get them to actually do the job that the Governor of NY State and the Department of Health are paying them to do.
Lives are literally at risk because individuals who need help are being left alone and may have to go to nursing homes to get care because of the incompetence of this PPL company. It is wrong on so many levels.
But again, grateful for all of us who have called, written, texted and protested in person and online to call attention to the needs of hundreds of thousands of individuals, many of whom cannot do any of this for themselves.
That's my main and huge Thank You to this organization and all of the folks contributing to our meetings and action steps. United we stand.
I really like the Adam Grant idea. I’m prone to negative self talk and doing this lifts my confidence and my spirit. Which I believe Christ encourages when the motives are pure. It helps me be a better person.
God bless.
I am thankful for my new laptop. I have been using a lap top that was given to me several years ago and limped along with waiting for it to start (I can make tea), the screen freezing, unable to watch a full tv show, etc. I called a reputable service to see if they had a refurbished or used one and could move almost everything over. Yes, and yes. For $210.00. My goodness, I feel like I have my life back and it didn't cost thousands of dollars!
I am thankful for the lovely spring flowers and trees. I have been working a very little at a time to pull dead stems of the tall perennials that I have. Also at picking up the branches from the dead ash tree I have yet to get removed. I did buy herbs and color pot annuals and hope to get them planted before this Resurrection Sunday. The purple wave petunias were especially charming.
It's been nice to see the bees busy at work! I am thankful for them and the other pollinators that keep us fed
I am also thankful for the voices and volunteers in WNC that continue to aid the Helene ravaged region. I am especially grateful for Jake Jarvis and Precision Grading for continuing to work his big equipment for free to the people there. He is working and paying his staff with the donations of people like us.
My biggest thankful is the release of the Pastor in South Africa that was taken captive!
I think how it’s not like Jesus is this is a business site and you make money off of it and it is broadcast on internet so not a private thing from the heart but very public encouraging others to look so you can make money. But people interpret the Bible any and all ways and God and Jesus certainly let them do whatever they choose.
I think Jesus and Joseph probably got paid for the carpentry work they did. 😉
@Kristen, I expect they did also. Even if their work was from the heart.
I think any exercise that makes us think about how we impact the world is bound to be a little uncomfortable and takes a lot of discernment. That doesn't mean it's less valuable, just that it should be handled with care. I was just reading how in the Buddhist tradition there is an exercise in which you list out all the ways you brought harm to others, which obviously can lead to a lot of guilt if one isn't careful.
I am grateful:
- That my husband is coming home again today
- For the full coverage retainer that keeps me from underbiting/grinding my teeth at night
- For people who are helping me to overcome my fear of flying
- For the opportunity to live abroad but still have employment
- For peanut butter. Because it's delicious in the AM on my oatmeal, and my thankfuls above are pretty heavy 😉
Personally, I am thankful when you and others talk about giving blood. It took me a lot of years to build up the courage to donate earlier this year, but knowing that FG and community were supportive was really helpful for me. The experience was pretty terrible but I'm committed to doing it again soon. And hoping it goes a lot better this time.
@Ruth T, As someone who received a blood transfusion this morning and will again tomorrow afternoon, I thank you for donating blood.
@Lindsey, My son donated blood today for the first time, and I was so proud. It's been a long time since I tried (I've tried many times and only succeeded in giving enough once), but I've been thinking about trying again after I'm not anemic.
@Lindsey, Thank you for sharing! I'll be thinking of you for this next one!
I'm grateful I got to retire. I'm thankful for my morning cups to tea. Most mornings my husband has a hot cup of tea waiting for me when I get up. I love drinking a cup of tea, reading the paper and watching morning news programs. Back in 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and wasn't sure how it would all turn out. After a lumpectomy, chemo and radiation, I was good. And healed. I worked throughout treatment and worked 4 more years before I retired. I enjoy and am grateful for every day I have.
I'm grateful I have enough -- enough to eat, a warm bed, a nice home, no financial worries. I don't often complain because I came from modest means and so many people have it far worse than me.
How exciting for your lasts and upcoming firsts. What an awesome new season in your life.
I am grateful for:
1. Jody's and Farhana's contributions last Thursday. I am new and just read them today.
They both touched me deeply.
2. Kristen, thank you so much for the moss pictures! I moved from mossy and ferny Maryland to the Arizona desert 40 yrs ago. Your pictures blessed me to my toes.
3. A neighbor shared some of her fresh from the tree oranges!
4. Same neighbor shared an hour of time with me and the young blind girl she does respite care with. We explored a "pup" that my snake plant is growing. My retired teacher's heart was blessed.
5. Finding this and Katy's blogs. I miss community. These are wonderful ones!
It’s the 5th day of Passover and I’m thankful for
- the annual reminder to think about slavery, freedom, and the meaning of liberation
- Shai Held’s book “Judaism is About Love” guiding my theological reflections this Passover
- time with family during the holiday, and especially my kids getting to spend time with their cousins
- my husband’s parents helping out with Passover/spring break childcare
- delicious fresh fruits and vegetables that make it much more enjoyable to get through a week with no legumes and minimal grains
- working with an amazing nurse coordinator who makes my job easier and more fun
I've told many younger people over the years it does NOT matter how much they pay you if you hate your job. Beware the golden handcuffs - I've also known too many people stuck at jobs they hate because their financial choices left them no other option. And at least one whose golden handcuffs went away and oh the horrors his entitled SAH(M) wife (sorry, I have zippo use for women or men who don't appreciate AND contribute) had to get off her duff and get a job.
Thankful that I have a WFH, well paying job that I love (well, most of the time). That and living below our means for the 40+ years we've been married = discrentionary dollars for fundraisers/local charities. Was the rare time better half and I (well better half) scored from a raffle. I won all but one of the items I bid on in the silent auction. Better half is thrilled and it will be a nice family event with the kiddos. Parking included which is a big deal in a big city.
I really interpret those Bible quotes as people shouldn’t brag or go out of their way to broadcast their charitable acts, not so much about making a list that’s for your own personal benefit.
If people made a habit of broadcasting this list to others- well- maybe that’s a different story.
I want to express my appreciation for your blog about thrift. There are so many comments, that I don't always read all of them, but one that I read last year literally put hundreds of dollars into our debt pay-off. Someone (and I'm so sorry I don't remember who it was) suggested going to the unclaimed funds website. We went to the one for Texas, entered our names and found several, which we have now claimed and deposited. I'd checked it about 5 years ago and nothing was there, however this time, we had more than one check from an electric company we used 20+ years ago. I guess they cleared up their books.
THANK YOU!
I have been reading your blog for many years now and this one is absolutely my favorite. You were right on the nail head on your theology statement. I absolutely loved it. Keep the faith and keep on trucking. You are so amazing and I look forward to reading your blog every day.