This year I have an unexpected but greatly appreciated item for which to give thanks. It all began with a bag of apples.
Here's what happened: I'd just purchased my walk-on ticket and was attempting to attach the heavy bag to my suitcase. A gift from my hostess, I knew Hubby would love them. In frustration I attempted to loop the bag over the handles of the suitcase, only to have it slither side to side then, in a final act of rebellion, down one side of my pull-along luggage. That's when the gentleman behind me offered to help.
We walked to the terminal, me pulling my much lighter suitcase, and he behind me, carrying the weight of future Thanksgiving pies and applesauce. Reaching the waiting room he commented on the cool wind. I responded, thanked him again for his help and introduced myself. He assured me "it was nothing" and told me his name. Hmm, I told him, I had an uncle Walt with a surname the same as his. "So did I", he responded.
The conversation continued until we realized we were cousins, had lived in the same community for approximately seven years and I'd taught his daughter piano. I'd known there were people with the name in that town but Mom had assured me that they probably weren't related to our clan; I hadn't pursued the matter. For the next eighty minute ferry ride we chatted non-stop, fuelled by excitement.
Prior to this event I could only imagine the thrill of finding long lost family; now, I know how it feels. So do the angels in heaven!
"Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." (Luke 15:10 - NKJV)
The sure fire way to make heaven erupt with joy!
