When people list what they’re thankful for, the most common responses among Christians are God, salvation, and family, and I would affirm that I am thankful for those things. But I also realized last week that I am thankful for the gift of memories.

If you have had a horrible life, you most likely don’t view memories as a gift, and I have my own share of memories that I’d just as soon forget, but I also have plenty of thoughts that take me back to times of joy and laughter with loved ones that I miss dearly while I wait to be reunited with them.

In my mind’s eye, I see myself at eight years old sitting on the counter while Grandma cracked eggs for her church’s Easter breakfast. Or as a young adult going with Grandpa to the local truck stop for their all-you-can-eat fish dinner. I have numerous memories of concerts I attended, people I’ve met, outings with my sisters, etc. It makes me so thankful for the life God has given me and the people He has placed in my life.

This year, I have also revisited a lot of painful memories, and these are harder to be thankful for. Some things I would have written differently into my script, but like it or not, they were a part of my life as well. I think the important thing when dealing with negative situations or people is to learn from them. Pin what went wrong and note traits that you do not want to define you. If someone has hurt you, resolve not to hurt others in that way. Try to figure out the root so that you can spot it if it begins to show up in your life. Don’t let your pain be wasted by repeating the cycle, but give it to the Lord and let Him handle it.

I believe that all memories serve a purpose. This holiday season, I pray that I will discard the bad while clinging to the good. I pray to keep growing in the discipline of giving God thanks in all things since this is what He desires of His children.

Since I don’t think I said it last week, I want to say that I am thankful for those who read my posts each week. During conference season, I can go a while without posting, but it is a blessing to have this outlet. May God bless you as you serve Him with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.