I can't believe that tomorrow is Thanksgiving! This year has been somewhat of a blur. At times it has gone warp speed, and other moments it seemed to crawl,... and during the most painful of moments, it seemed to stop all together. Despite everything, good and bad, I can look back over this year and say "I am full of Thanksgiving!"
My pastor has been doing a series on this recently. For those of you who are aware of what this past year held for my church family, you understand how meaningful this truly is. For those of you who don't, let me explain:
On Thanksgiving last year, my pastor's son and daughter-in-law lost their beautiful little girl, Palmyr. It happened without warning or explanation. The sudden loss of anyone is hard, but the sudden death of an innocent child seemed beyond comprehension.
I suddenly found a holiday that has brought me so much joy tainted and marred. It was on Thanksgiving 4 years prior that I first went to Kenya. It became such a special day filled with amazing memories. As this Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself conflicted. 5 years after my first trip, I am finally realizing my dream. My heart is finally going home, even if it is broken. However, the memories of last year still brings a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes.
I'm choosing to be thankful. I'm rejoicing in the fact that though Palmyr is gone, her legacy is not. The foundation Palmyr's Playhouse was created in her memory. It is dedicated to extending joy to kids around the world through the building of playrooms and playgrounds. I am encouraged by the thought that the little girl who's chubby little smile brought joy to my heart is spreading joy to those I love in Kenya. I may not get to watch her grow, but I am honored to help grow her legacy.
I leave Sunday for my next trip to Kenya. I know this trip will be more emotional than any trip I've taken. Seeing the site of the first international Palmyr's Playhouse is likely to evoke some sadness. Yet, how beautiful is it that I will forever be connected to a little girl whom I loved so much?
So, as we celebrate this holiday, won't you join me in truly being and saying: "I am so full of thanksgiving!"
My pastor has been doing a series on this recently. For those of you who are aware of what this past year held for my church family, you understand how meaningful this truly is. For those of you who don't, let me explain:
On Thanksgiving last year, my pastor's son and daughter-in-law lost their beautiful little girl, Palmyr. It happened without warning or explanation. The sudden loss of anyone is hard, but the sudden death of an innocent child seemed beyond comprehension.
I suddenly found a holiday that has brought me so much joy tainted and marred. It was on Thanksgiving 4 years prior that I first went to Kenya. It became such a special day filled with amazing memories. As this Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself conflicted. 5 years after my first trip, I am finally realizing my dream. My heart is finally going home, even if it is broken. However, the memories of last year still brings a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes.
I'm choosing to be thankful. I'm rejoicing in the fact that though Palmyr is gone, her legacy is not. The foundation Palmyr's Playhouse was created in her memory. It is dedicated to extending joy to kids around the world through the building of playrooms and playgrounds. I am encouraged by the thought that the little girl who's chubby little smile brought joy to my heart is spreading joy to those I love in Kenya. I may not get to watch her grow, but I am honored to help grow her legacy.
I leave Sunday for my next trip to Kenya. I know this trip will be more emotional than any trip I've taken. Seeing the site of the first international Palmyr's Playhouse is likely to evoke some sadness. Yet, how beautiful is it that I will forever be connected to a little girl whom I loved so much?
So, as we celebrate this holiday, won't you join me in truly being and saying: "I am so full of thanksgiving!"