I invited my neighbor over for Thanksgiving. Patricia arrived around 1 pm to teach me how to cook the turkey. I made stuffing and green bean casserole, while she baked a pie and prepared snacks. Later, we watched one of her favorite movies together.

It was a very simple holiday, nothing fancy at all, but it became one of my favorites. I think the true spirit of Thanksgiving and the Christ-centered fellowship really touched me. Patricia is such an old-school lady, partly because of her age, but also because she’s such a genuine person. I feel very grounded when I talk to her. It’s a completely different experience from talking to someone my age or younger.

The act of serving and caring for others through hosting and showing hospitality filled my heart with warmth. This is a part of me I never expected to discover when I turned 30. Just a few years ago, I was so self-centered, and in some ways, I still am. But Jesus taught me how to love others, and that love has made my heart glow. By learning to give love more freely, I’ve also come to receive deeper, more genuine love for myself. It’s truly a wholesome, all-encompassing, and deeply fulfilling experience.

Jesus, today I truly feel the spirit of Thanksgiving. I am deeply grateful for who You are and all You have done for us. I want to praise You with all my heart and surrender everything I have to bring joy to our Heavenly Father.