Because my January departure for the World Race is quickly approaching, things are getting stressful as deadlines are looming to get all of my stuff packed and moved, to get all my vaccinations, to get my paperwork done, and to raise more money for the mission trip. I was much in need of a break. The Thanksgiving holiday could not have come at a better time. A few days away was just what the doctor ordered, or more accurately, just what God had in mind.
This year I spent Thanksgiving with my two favorite people in Philly, my friend Erica and my boyfriend Jose. This is a vacation the three of us friends had been planning since January.
We spent the holiday in Puerto Rico staying with Jose’s sister and spending our time with his family. Even though they all spoke Spanish and Erica and I do not, it was great to see how love and hospitality crosses language and cultural barriers. A few days of sharing time, space, food, and memories really bonded us with Jose’s family. It was such a beautiful thing. But, it was not the only thing that was beautiful. While we were enjoying our time with the family and taking the much needed rest and relaxation that time away from home brings, we also had the opportunity to just marvel at God’s creation.
All in all, even though I did not spend Thanksgiving with my family in Kansas, it was a wonderful Thanksgiving. Family encompasses much more than shared language or shared culture. Familial love extends beyond blood and last names. This Thanksgiving, I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to spend time with friends, bond with new family, and enjoy the gorgeous island called Puerto Rico that God so beautifully created.
1 Thes 5:16-18: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
My holiday was full of joy, prayer, and thanksgiving.
I hope that you too, had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends wherever you were.
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
