The Opalewski family has a tradition every year at Thanksgiving breakfast: we go around the table, and each person shares what they’re thankful for this past year. (I know… not too original.) I look forward to this tradition every year, because there are always some surprises as the kids share their reasons for being thankful.

And it has me thinking this morning, about what I’m thankful for in 2015:

I’m thankful for a God who never leaves nor forsakes; who sticks with me in good times and bad, who leads and guides, blesses and provides, saves and heals, forgives and shields, who draws and comforts, who disciplines and corrects, who loves more unconditionally than any person in the universe.

I’m thankful for a wife who loves me despite my flaws, who lives with integrity and character, who makes me laugh, think, and inspires me to be a better man.

I’m thankful for 4 boys who fill my life with joy, who’ve grown into men and matured, who work diligently, make me laugh, think, and inspire me to be a better dad.

I’m thankful for my family of origin, Mom and Dad, who’ve both passed, 5 sisters and 3 brothers who provided so many good memories, who still love and watch over me, and inspire me to be a better brother.

I’m thankful for brothers and sisters in Christ, who enrich my life, who love Jesus, their family, and their friends, who motivate me, crack me up, and inspire me to be a better Jesus-follower.

I’m thankful for eyes that see and ears that hear, for arms and legs that still work, for a brain that still functions, for a roof over my head, food on the table, running water, and warm clothes.

I’m thankful for the natural beauty all around me; the Great Lakes, blue sky and sunshine, for the annual fall color show in Michigan, for the moon and stars.

The more things I write down today, the lighter my heart feels. Most of us reading this post are so blessed. Can I encourage you to take a few minutes today and write down all of the things you’re thankful for? You will feel lighter, happier, and more content. Happy Thanksgiving!