#25DaysOfGratitude

December is definitely my favorite month of the year! Not only because it’s my birth month, but also because it is the season when people are generally generous, happier and forgiving… making this the perfect time to appreciate and thank those who have helped us in one way or another.

I was browsing through one of the blogs I follow when I read about the 25-Day Challenge. It’s on sending 24 people a thank you message directly, or through a Facebook post or a tweet on Twitter. Since there’s probably more than one person to show gratitude to, you may take each day to appreciate a particular person until December 25. Twenty four names because on the 25th, the One we are thanking is Jesus. He who came so that we can have an eternal and abundant life.

Here’s my 25-day journey of people and things I was and still grateful for. Last year I came up with People of my Year 2010 post which listed the people who have mentored me, inspired me, led me to see a different perspective in life, and helped me during a difficult situation. It was only 10 people last time and now I’ve got 25 on my list. I am really, really happy that I don’t run out of beautiful gifts in my life.

And the most important of all -

Day 25:

I am thankful for quiet early mornings, bright blue skies and happy smiles. For dark nights and bright stars, long travels and long walks. For comfort foods, good books, extraordinary dreams and meaningful days. For strangers that inspires and people who cares. For honest hugs, honest stories and honest promises.

I am thankful for all the times I dreamed and tried yet failed because those made me realize that I am not in control and sometimes, it is okay not to be. I am thankful because in life I have learned that there is always a chance to start over… that I have a lifetime to dream what I want to dream; go where I want to go, and be what I want to be. I am thankful because there are enough trials and sorrows to make me strong and to keep me human… and that happy endings are real and goodbyes are never permanent. I am thankful because there is always hope and love for those who are brave enough to still believe.

Most of all, I am thankful because Someone loved me enough to save me and because that love is more than enough… each and every time. Happy Birthday, dear JESUS!

…and MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone. Today completes my #25DaysOfGratitude challenge.. but may we all continue to live a grateful life.

RELATED POSTS:

A Generous Heart
Christmas is in the Air
Dear Papa God
Top 10 People of My 2010