Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, it's a blessing to say 'THANKS' – that's an honor to God. That thought popped up as several guys were discussing the cancer diagnosis of their uncle.

'Johnny' spoke, stating that he'd been in the room with his uncle when the Dr. came in, suggesting he start each day by giving thanks, "For at least three things," she suggested.

'Dan' stated that Uncle starts out each day with words of praise; Thank You, God, for a good night's sleep. For my clean bed. For Sunshine. For breakfast on the table. For a smile on my lips.

"Each word is heartfelt", 'Dan' said, "Psalm 50:15, says 'Call on Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.' Small details matter to Almighty God, God has no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, God wants His people to give Him our hearts and lives in gratitude."

'Time' slowly passed. Uncle experienced whole-hearted gratitude; he knew God would deliver him, and us also, if we're suffering. Uncle will be healed, spiritually and physically during his two-year treatment, but for now, Uncle delights in showing God he is grateful for HIS love, and for who God is: Redeemer. Healer. Friend. His friends delight hearing these beautiful words: 'Thank you!'"

Several other friends had listened to 'Johnny' and 'Dan'; one shared that he'd been the 'receiver' of 'Thanks!' as he'd opened a door in a store for an elderly woman.

"I know Uncle; I also thank the Lord for the sunshine, heat, lights and water,' said Patti, "and for candy Auntie gave us last week. I know Jenny gets 'Thanks!' when she delivers cookies to her elderly neighbors ... . and 'D.J.', gets thanks for being a great lawn-care guy."

"WE honor God with Thanks; so, don't forget that, as we celebrate Thanksgiving!" smiled Jenny; they all left, singing....'Count your many blessings, Name them one by one, See what God hath done ... .'"

Love Mara.