Being thankful for the 'little things'
As we headed towards our ImpACT Thanksgiving Lunch and the table that was soon to be ours, I was struck by the look of awe on the kids’ faces. One of the kids looked up at me with a big grin and commented how the napkins were ‘so fancy’ – each had been folded in half into a triangular shape – and many of the other kids noted the same. I could tell they were very appreciative of all the helpers and the great preparation for this special occasion, and they thoroughly enjoyed their turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and more! Seeing their joy almost made me cry; I had forgotten that our ImpACT kids don’t often get to experience something as special as this. Hearing their compliments on the food and settings made me realize how often I am so unaware of the little details … such as triangular-folded napkins.
I'm so encouraged that our Impact kids notice even the ‘little things’; I'm certain that if they are grateful for the little things, then they are grateful for things like food and rides, large group times and small group times. Sometimes during our Sunday mornings together, I wonder if the kids are paying attention to everything we are doing for them; but after sharing our Thanksgiving Lunch together, I’m heartened to know that what we do does not go unnoticed by our kids, that their gratitude increases as they recognize more and more the ‘little things’ we lovingly do for them. I'm so thankful to God that he started ImpACT, for the lesson they’ve taught me about being grateful for the often unnoticed details of my life, and for this privilege to serve as a team lead for our ImpACT kids.