Betty Whitaker Jackson

Day 16

Now, upon reflection, I realize with my attitude of gratitude, that childhood experiences serve a greater purpose. I have empathy for and special recognition and love for those who may be physically or mentally challenged in some way. I’ve always given them an extra measure of encouragement—those things I felt lacking when I so wanted to know I could achieve in spite of difficulties.

God just filled me with things other than physical or athletic beauty and prowess. …..

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Day 15

The challenges and difficulties of life change in each decade.

It’s been my experience that crises in my life have not been as drastic as some that others have experienced. Yes, childhood physical difficulties like three operations for a seven-year-old, bullying by playmates and “that’s too bad” comments from adults at the patches over my right eye, the one that could actually see, and glasses on my three-year-old tiny face, did affect me. I remember “failing” the eye…..

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Today, we are grateful that our government shutdown has ended, and we will have some sense of accomplishment that our legislators are back at work accomplishing tasks that have been neglected for over a month. For those who have been adversely affected (really, when you think about the timing of this whole fiasco, that includes everyone) we offer each other grace and mercy and whatever comfort we can. Let us recognize those whose finances are in a mess, whose schedules…..

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Day 12

With an attitude of gratitude, I have learned through the college of hard knocks that the world does not revolve around my little sphere of influence. I’m glad I’ve learned that lesson. I should say, I am learning that.

As aging occurs, I find less strength of my own. Everything takes more time and energy than it used to. I need to write lists now to remember dates, things-to-do, prescriptions, directions. Coping mechanisms.

It’s God’s way, mixed with…..

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Day 11

November 11th and other times as well, we remember those who sacrificed everything they had, their time, their strength, their dignity, their very selves, and some, their lives and limbs, for our freedom. May we give them our thanksgiving and reflect on their service.

Then, may we think spiritually of the very Son of God, who came from heavenly beauty, peace, and the very Presence of our Father God, to be born in a smelly stable, scratched…..

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On this Sabbath Day, reassess your understanding of God’s sovereignty.

Day 9

As the oldest of four children, I was expected to achieve, to accomplish, to be a good example, to look after the others, to be perfect. It has scarred me, placed too much stress on me, somewhat alienated me from my siblings, and in perspective, colored my attitudes and diminished my sensibilities.

But God is healing me of that stain of self-sufficiency, and life’s blows have taught me…..

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Day 8

I confess I am closer to God’s guidance sometimes rather than others. One of my sinful nature traits is to try to handle things on my own. I tell myself, mistakenly, that I can face life’s challenges on my own. After all, I learned it early. Isn’t every parent’s task to raise independent, self-sufficient children, capable and equipped to accomplish great things? From applause for first steps to brag centers at graduation parties, we rightly or wrongly preach…..

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Whatever the news reports, whateve3r the political hysteria, we know it’s all temporary and tomorrow will bring up its own troubles. But, in this month of harvest of all that is good and the finalizing ete of Thanksgiving, let us celebrate by sharing this entry from my book Thankgliving: Attitude of Gratitude and concentrate on God’s goodness and the many blessings we receive each day, even when personal, national, and international concerns might try to overshadow our thankful response to God’s…..

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Day 5

It is with awe and an attitude of gratitude that He is not merely “out there” but is a very personal presence because He reaches us through sending Jesus Christ as a visible presence, and His Holy Spirit to guide us and point us to Him, Holy yet approachable.

When I look at life through His perspective, my life is inexplicably entwined with His purposes for me and for those with whom I come in contact. Mankind, believers…..

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