I did this last year and I decided to it again this year. Maybe it will become a tradition.
Jesus
Putting Jesus first isn’t a coincidence or even an act done out of feelings of obligation. Jesus is first because Jesus is foundational to everything on this list. Without him, his grace and mercy, his love, his strength, and his blessings, none of these would be possible. It is because of him I have a perspective to see these things as blessings worth being grateful for, not things that should be expected. Without him I am nothing.
My Mom
It’s no secret to anyone who knows me that I am a mama’s boy. It is also isn’t a secret to anyone who knows me that I’m not ashamed to be one. If you had a mom like mine, you wouldn’t be ashamed either. My mother is the embodiment of strength. She had a heart for people, isn’t afraid to speak her mind, and is incredibly goofy. She has taught me more about life than anyone else
My Dad
My dad has continually showed me what it means to be a good father. What it means to provide for a family. He has shown me what true sacrifice looks like. He would do anything to provide for his family, to see them happy. He supports my decisions and lets me make my own mistakes. I am truly thankful.
My Family
Along with my parents, I have a tremendous family. They love me at my worst and they get to see it more than anyone else. Knowing how bad my worst is, I am extremely grateful for their love and mercy. They always support me. They always love me, even if I’m being a self-righteous brat with an attitude problem.
My Friends
I’d like to believe that everyone is lucky enough to have as many wonderful friends as I do. I know, however, that this cannot be true. My friends provide me with more laughs than any movie or television show. They give me a place to go when I need a pick me up. I’m able to be myself, free of any pressures of feeling judged.
My “Above and Beyond” Friends
I have a few friends who always go above and beyond to see me happy, successful, and loved. They know my looks, my moods, my thoughts, my fake laugh, when I’m trying too hard, when I’m not trying enough, when I’m tying to fool them and when I’m fooling myself. They call me out, they lift me up, and they always have my best interest in mind. They stop what they’re doing to call me or come over when they know I’m in a funk. They make me a better person.
Role Models and Leaders
Everyone has role models, people they look up to. But, I bet few people get to be so close to theirs. God has placed some very special people in my life. Not only do I get to look up to these people, but also I get to do life with some of them. They speak into my life; they inspire me, some even care about me. I consider this as one of my greatest blessings.
Journey Church
The people who make up Journey Church mean so much to me. They were there for me when I needed it most. I love it when I’m there and I miss it when I’m gone. God gave me something special when he led me to Journey. I’m blessed to call it home.
Journey Kids
I get to hangout with some awesome kids, serve with some amazing leaders, and organize their chaotic closets. What more could anyone ask for? This ministry blesses me in more ways than one.
UNC
Thankful for this institution, for my education, and for being favored enough by God to be a Tarheel. I wear Carolina Blue proudly.
Pizza
As I type this, I am cooking a pizza and it smells delicious. I cannot wait to eat it.
A Good Book
I’ve never considered myself a reader; I actually used to hate reading. But, as I grow older (I guess that’s why…) I’ve began to really enjoy diving into a good book headfirst. I’m thankful for this newfound love that allows me to escape for a little while and to truly appreciate the power of well-written words. (Currently, I’m reading Divergent. It’s awesome and you should read it too. Especially you Hunger Games fans)
Funny Movies and TV Shows
I love TV and I watch way too much of it. I know this and I don’t care. Funny movies and TV shows let me turn my brain off and laugh, or cry, or get mad, or whatever at events that never happened to people who don’t exist.
Loud Music
I like to listen to really loud music in my car so I don’t hear myself singing the words. If I heard myself singing it would ruin the fantasy of me being a rock star or the next, much better looking, Justin Bieber.
Apple
That’s all.
Coffee
I consume a lot of coffee. It helps be stay awake and alert in order to better appreciate all of the other things on this list. Also, it is yummy.
Laughter
Laughter is something I never want to take for granted. I get to laugh more than any normal person should. Some people long for laughter, for that instant where everything around you stops and all you can do is think about how funny something is or how happy you are. When everything in the world seems okay, even if it’s only for a brief moment. I get to experience it on a daily basis.
Forgiveness
I’m thankful for Jesus’ forgiveness of my sins, for people forgiveness of my flaws, and for my ability to forgive. Blame and anger are chains and bondage, forgiveness is freedom. Try it if you haven’t.
Growth
This past year has been full of growth. I can see God working in me and I am thankful he would take the time. This growth has come with new perspectives and a stronger faith. I pray that it never ceases.
Dreams
I’m thankful for dreams, passions, and desires. I’m thankful to be able to strive for better, to be able to work hard to achieve great things, and to be able to dream.
The Past
God has used my past experiences, the good and the bad, to shape me. He strengthened, grew, and stretched me into the person I am today. Looking at where I’ve been gets me excited about where I’m going.
The Future
Just like he used the past, he’s going to use the future to continuously mold me into who he needs be to be. I look forward to where God is going to take me. The future is still a big mystery to me, but I’m excited nonetheless.
joe roy 