RANDOMNESS: one thousand gifts

I've joined a book club at a local church.  Now, I'm not a religious person.  I was never raised in church, I never went to church.  The only times I have been in a church were for weddings, christenings and funerals.

Strangely enough, I was married in a church.  The very same church where my mother and father-in-law were wed.  It was more for tradition's sake than anything else.

I can appreciate people's beliefs; I don't attest to know more or less than anyone else where spirituality is concerned.  I come from a people, first people as we're now referred to, who believe that everything in life has a spirit; from a place where Christianity was introduced.  I like believing that everything has a spirit and soul.... I think for me, it makes me appreciate life that much more.  To not take for granted what the earth has given us.  Again, I make no judgements on what people want to believe to live the life they were meant to live.

So you may be wondering, Why has she chosen to join a club within a church?  Well, I'll tell ya.... My friend, Rebecca, is the minister's wife at said church.  She invited me to join.  One morning a week; for a couple of hours; chatting; tea/coffee; and babysitting, which, honestly, is more like nursery school complete with lessons, craft time and snack.  Needless to say, my girl-monkey LOVES going to 'nursey sool'.

For me, it's a chance to get out of the house.  Talk with adults.  And let my child socialize and learn in a structured environment.  What's not to love?

The book:  one thousand gifts, written by Ann Voskamp.

A book written from a religious perspective.... but one that I can definitely read and apply to my own life.  What I've been able to take from this book, so far, is that I am genuinely happy with how my life has shaped itself, or rather, how I've molded myself into the person I am today.  I keep going back to the saying, 'When life gives you lemons....'  And I think that is a testament to my life.  With so many obstacles from inception to my early 20's.... well, some days I just shake my head and say to myself, 'How did I get here?'  Not here on earth; but, to this place where I can be okay and accepting and forgiving and most of all, happy.... It's a simple answer really -

I chose me.

I chose to change me.  I chose to accept that I cannot change the past and that I did not create the past.  I chose to move forward and live my best life....

I chose me.

So, the writer is trying to find grace in a life that keeps throwing grief after grief.... and has decided to write a list of one thousand things that she is thankful for.... and in doing so, she is reshaping herself, reshaping her soul and trying to live her life fully.

I like the idea of writing down things that make me smile, things I am ever grateful for.... I'm starting my list.  I'm going out, finding a beautiful journal, and everyday jotting down one thing that I am thankful for.  It's not unlike the 'I Love You' jars that I have for my children and husband.... only I'm choosing.... me.

Have a great day my pretties  ;)