I am grateful for a day to drive to Fort Leonard Wood in order to witness my nephew graduate from Army basic training yesterday. He went from this…

High school senior, four year state swimmer, all-around stud lifeguard,

…to this:

Private Ferguson, 1st in marksmanship, future Army Medic.

I am grateful for a very hot, humid weekend to enjoy with my Dad in Kansas City.

I am grateful for four club level Chief’s tickets, given to us by my boss who wanted to do something nice for my Dad this weekend.

I am grateful for a return to counseling because I need it.

I am grateful for conviction from the Holy Spirit. I have been convicted, once again, and was reminded yesterday that I have so much to work on in my life and the things I choose to say to others. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight…and let no evil talk come out of my mouth, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that my words may give grace to those who hear. Yep, so much to work on.

I am grateful for candy messages my Mom used to put together on special occasions, and grateful for Rachel who re-created a Grandma message with candy on our way yesterday, just for our graduate.  It went something like this:  Congratulations, Adam, you are no longer a member of the NERDS, and no one will SNICKER at you anymore. In fact, the girls will all think you are BUBBALICIOUS.  Are you excited for your PAYDAY? Soon you will be making 100 GRAND…and on and on.

I am grateful for the lesson of the shoes, and I am grateful that I continue to learn that I will never truly understand something unless and until it actually happens to me.