Thanksgiving: Because I Have Been Given Much

My sister Brittany and I grew up watching a certain LDS video called Lorenzo's Songbook. It's so old and so unknown I couldn't even find an image of it on Google. But here's the gist: a brother and sister discover an old chest in their grandmother's attic. When they open it, they find that the chest and its contents belonged to their pioneer ancestors. And there to tell the tale is Lorenzo, a scruffy, old stuffed animal (i think a dog?) that belonged to their great-great-great grandmother and remembers all of the tales of crossing the plains and being part of the early Church.

Haha. Yeah. But we loved it! Primary songs were sung throughout along with glimpses and lessons from Pioneer Days. One particular song on the video was my favorite: Because I Have Been Given Much. As the song played, it showed two sisters who served one another and went about doing good. Another scene showed the pioneer grandmother as a little girl giving a small wooden heart to a friend. Even as a kid, the song touched me. My mom even let Brittany and I play with a similar wooden heart she had as a decoration. I felt so cool to have that wooden heart and then do acts of service and leave it at the scene of service.

I'm not sure what ever happened to that wooden heart. But I really cherished it when I was little. I am so grateful for that sweet, simple video and the amazing spiritual impact that hymns can have in our lives. It was played in church on Sunday and I nearly burst into tears! The lyrics are so humbling. It made me count my blessings this Thanksgiving and think of those who are in need of them.

Some of my cherished blessings currently:

• My family. Being on the other side of the country is hard. I miss being able to hug my mom or play with my cousins or talk with my grandma. So I am also grateful for technology! What would I do without my phone?
• Health. I've been sick for a month now with a pesky sinus infection/bronchitis. It simply won't go away. But being sick sure makes me realize what a blessing it is to feel well and be productive. 
• Patience. Not mine, but my husband's. Scott is the most patient, loving, kind, and understanding person. Even when I'm cranky and lash out, he'll just smile and laugh and suggest that maybe he take me to bed or get me something to eat or rub my back. He never acts in anger. He is a wonderful example.
• Christmas Music. It simply lifts my spirits and brings me so much joy! It is my favorite time of the year.
• New Friends. There are many great couples/families in our ward here in Florida. They are so kind and have been wonderful. They make us feel loved and wanted.
• Visiting Teachers. I have a great visiting teacher. She is small and happy and a great source of advice. She brought me flowers the other day and I love her for that!
• Trials. Yes, trials. I am grateful for their humbling abilities. Their way of putting things into perspective. 
• My brother. Every week he makes me cry. His letters are so inspiring. His example is remarkable. I am so thankful for the blessings he brings to our family as he serves as a full-time missionary in Nashville. He serves among some very humble people of very meager means and tumultuous backgrounds. He truly embodies the hymn "Because I Have Been Given Much." He is serving his fellow man by sharing his knowledge of the gospel.

Growing up, the hymn always meant taking care of the poor and needy. Now, my missionary brother has helped me see a new meaning: sharing the gospel with our brothers and sisters. Taking care of their souls and salvation.

Because I have been given much, I too must give.

Because of thy great bounty, Lord each day I live.

I shall divide my gifts from thee with every brother that I see,

who has the need of help from me.

Because I have been sheltered, fed by thy good care…

I cannot see another’s lack and I not share-

my glowing fire, my loaf of bread-my roof’s safe shelter over head,

that he too may be comforted.

Because I have been blessed by thy great love dear Lord,

I’ll share thy love again according to thy word.

I shall give love to those in need. I’ll show that love by word and deed,

thus shall my thanks be thanks indeed.

I have been blessed with much. I hope I can raise my children in a home like I had: filled with wooden hearts, thanks giving, and hymns!