Our Declaration of Independence says we’re all created equal and endowed by our Creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. We have drafted legislation, passed laws and waged wars in pursuit of freedom. We are a great nation, more advanced than any in history, progressing at such a pace that what was revolutionary yesterday is retro today. Yet, we remain so enslaved to clocks, watches, gadgets, calendars, appointments and lists that it takes a national holiday to remind some of us to stop and give thanks for family, friends, country, freedoms, and those who fought to provide those freedoms.
One day isn’t enough time to express gratitude, and it shouldn’t be. Thanksgiving can be enjoyed all year if we practice Thanksliving. It’s a lifestyle of daily gratitude.
Thanksgiving Day does serve as a reminder, and reminders make it easier to be thankful. They are like speed limit signs. They’re everywhere and obvious, but can go unnoticed if we’re rushing from point A to point B. Without reminders, we can easily forget to give thanks. Moses knew this some 3000 years ago.
Deut. 8:10-11 “When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD.”
After we enjoy this Thanksgiving season, let’s commit to a Thanksliving season that lasts all year-long. Here are 3 reminders God gives to help us.
PEOPLE MAKE IT EASY TO GIVE THANKS
The Apostle Paul wrote, “I have you in my heart.” So, who is on your ‘you’ list?’
*Immediate family? Best Team Ever?
*Myers-Davis individuals: Doc? Angela? Don? Alissa? Bethany? Isaac?
*Friend(s)? Neighbor(s)? Co-worker(s)?
*Someone who encouraged you, rescued you or came to your aid?
*Person(s) who allowed you to receive a blessing when you blessed them?
Each of us has a ‘you’ in our life. Remember to give thanks for them.
MEMORIES MAKE IT EASY TO GIVE THANKS
Paul also wrote, “I thank my God every time I remember you.” He stored up memories of others in his heart for comfort and encouragement.
God knows the importance of memories. The Bible contains 48 references to memories and memorials, another 24 to remembrances. J.B.F. Wright wrote the hymn, Precious Memories, following the death of his young son. Mr. Wright understood the value of remembering those who are precious.
What stirs your memory of loved ones? Is it a song, an event, a photo, a place? My mother loved the color red. When I see it, I remember her smile and thank God for her influence on me. Thanksliving embraces precious memories.
BLESSINGS MAKE IT EASY TO GIVE THANKS
My long-time church office was filled with photos, figurines, trinkets and books. Someone once challenged me to count the items I had been given (blessed with) by others. There were 64 pieces of Elvis Presley memorabilia; I purchased none of them. On a bookshelf was Dr. Edward Myers’ book, Angels. Although it was a gift, I was disappointed he didn’t have a chapter on me! I was amazed at the many expressions of love; I was emotional because of the memories they triggered.
Why did it take a challenge to remember to give thanks for blessings in my life? I now know that challenge was another blessing. So, I challenge you to ‘count your many blessings, name them one by one.’ Don’t be concerned if you lose count; in fact, you should – we all should.
May this Thanksliving season bring blessings to you, as you bless others.
Remember: you are greatly loved!
–Jackie Chesnutt, Chaplain and Emotional Support Coach for Myers-Davis (11/17/2025)
