For November 12th:

“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” Psalm 9:1

Three years ago I struggled finding a new job following a lay off from a company where I had worked for over twenty years.  At the time I was convinced that I needed to go into a different field.  For over a year I had a very narrow vision of what I wanted or which jobs I should apply.  Needless to say, I remained unemployed and unappreciative for the most part of my circumstances.  What I did appreciate was the loving support of my family and friends.  I recall one life-long friend encouraging me to appreciate the time that I finally had to be a larger presence at home with my children and their day-to-day activities.  I was available to help my parents and provide back- up to my sister who had thus far and still remains the first line of defense with challenges that arise with my elderly parents.

Though I enjoyed this time with my parents and family, I felt guilty for not working and knew economically I needed to be a provider once again.  As I became more frustrated with the process and my situation, special people were put in front of me with encouraging words, advice and prayers.  I will never forget going through communion line one Sunday morning and hearing those supporting words, “we are praying for you.”  I slowly opened my mind to doing the one thing that I said I did not want to do…contract work in the same field that I had worked for several years.  It was not much longer when I did find a job with people that I thoroughly enjoyed.  Though it only lasted about a year (such can be the nature of contract work…), I once again have been blessed with a similar position with co-workers that I am enjoying being around.  I am thankful for all of those kind words and prayers from so many special people that helped guide me to my path today.

Thank you God for all these wonderful people that are in my life today and those that helped guide and support me yesterday.

Melinda Thedford