Thanksgiving 2018

At 35, compared to before, I’ve found more peace in 2018 (though still struggling). I can accept whichever way our family’s future or our children’s education turns out, rich or poor, less anxiety now.

Thank God, I have the hope of eternal life. That’s why there’s peace and joy.

Thank God, our family started regular family worship time in September, sticking with it for over three weeks at one stretch. This marks a breakthrough for us in many years.

Thank God, my wife and I have talked more this year about family, work, health, and more.

Thank God for providing our daily bread. We lack nothing and even have leftovers.

Thank God, I started driving to work in the second half of the year. After trying various commute times, I settled on a suitable one. Driving gives me time flexibility. Plus, in the community, I have a dedicated parking spot (The property manager replaced my original weekday spot with a narrow, hard-to-park one no one wanted, near the door for his son. This improved my parking skills and secured me a spot. Looking back, I’m grateful).

Thank God for the lessons in handling interpersonal relationships at work in 2018.

Thank God for helping me keep a calm heart when talking with colleagues and bosses.

Thank God, I’m still healthy. Since an accident in December 2017, I pay attention to resting flat. The year-end health check in 2018 showed areas needing rest and adjustment.

Thank God for a family trip in July with my family, my brother’s family, and our parents.

Thank God for the deeper conversation with my dad in November about “hard decisions in life.”

Thank God for giving my daughter Eather wisdom in her studies and piano practice; she’s growing more considerate and understanding.

Thank God for blessing my son Anran with health and cuteness.

Thank God for the harmony in our family, for family members loving and bearing with each other.

Thank God for protecting my marriage, helping me overcome selfish desires and stay vigilant against lust and temptation, and for helping us be patient and considerate with each other as husband and wife.