congratulations Ricky

It’s September, and it’s already half over. In a way, it feels like a new beginning. Like a school year, there are new classes, new challenges, and new goals. And there’s always a need to be thankful for everything that happens, and to see the bright side of all situations.

Today’s message talked about how challenges often define our character. They test our courage, our integrity and humility. Above it all, He does not abandon us. We belong to Him. He is just and can do us no wrong. Even when others do, He is overruling them, and meaning good for us in it. It’s a character-building experience. Learn a lesson, and make a change. I am thankful for challenges that help to make me stronger. Life would be static if there were nowhere to go and nowhere to grow.

You cannot change what happens, but you can change how you react to what happens. Often the best way to react is with thankfulness.

I am thankful for many things this past month. I am thankful for a Saturday dinner with my close friends. I am thankful for being able to sing until late at night. I’m thankful for a good series of Sunday messages. I am thankful for Vietnamese dinner with good buddies. I’m thankful for Jennie’s friends, and for a fun night in Richmond. I’m thankful for my cousin Ricky, and for new family memories at his wedding. I am thankful for my relationships. I am thankful for my cousin Yin who is visiting from the UK.

Be thankful.