Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thanksgiving in the UK

It's just like any other day, almost. I went to the grocery store this morning to find some pumpkin to find that it's officially out of season here and isn't sold anywhere in either fresh or canned form. Big dinners will happen this weekend amongst other celebratory Americans. Today I do my homework and go to class as normal, except for the electrifying energy which may just be part of my own little inner world. The true essence of Thanksgiving is gratitude and that is something today is not lacking. The sun is shining and its so warm outside that a coat is almost too much. (This is a BIG deal for someone who moved from Hawaii with fear of the winter.) I eat well everyday, including hot chocolate with the yummiest of cream and regular chocolate that is so easy to get here. I love the lack of high fructose corn syrup in my food. I love my room and my window. I love the jolly people of England. I am super thankful for Skype, Facebook, and Google+ hangouts to keep in touch with family and friends who are life's greatest treasures. I love the flowers that grow outside my house. I am learning new things at school. It's great having so many international people from so many places in my classes. I love my bus and rail pass that takes me anywhere in West Yorkshire. Above all, I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the hope and peace it offers the World. Through it, God reaches out to all His children to lift, bless, heal, and bring joy to their lives. Along this note, I am also grateful for Family History work and all the records left behind by those who went before who now hope that someone like me will come along and find them. It's the best. I love the "you found me!" feeling. I love the Temple where their work can be done to reunite them with their loved ones. There is much to be grateful for today in England.