Thankful For The Gift

By Cami Checketts

The past few months I have battled nausea and exhaustion. The only time I felt good was when I had a bite of food in my mouth, which was a struggle for me as I don’t enjoy overeating and gaining weight. But I’m thankful for the sickness and my inability to accomplish anything because my body is growing a little miracle, and this summer our family will be blessed with a new baby.

Even when my body isn’t functioning properly, I am grateful for it. I’m thankful each day for the blessing of a healthy body the Lord has given me. I love being able to walk, run, dance and hug my children. I don’t ever want to take for granted this glorious blessing.

Today I have a challenge for each of you. I’d like for you to make two lists.

#1. Write down every aspect of your body that you enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

•Healthy heart and lungs
•The ability to move and breathe
•Enjoying healthy foods (and sometimes not so healthy)
•Hugging and loving family and friends
•Walking, running, swimming, biking, playing tennis, golf, etc.

The list could go on and on. Take a minute to write down the things you most appreciate. My inner thighs don’t make the list, but I really do enjoy my strong arms that can catch a toddler hurtling himself at my pregnant belly.

#2. Write down what you’re going to accomplish with your body today. Here are some suggestions:

•Exercise and enjoy movement
•Get outside and relish our beautiful world
•Kiss my spouse
•Cuddle with my boys
•Bake bread to share with a neighbor
•Make a phone call to someone who is lonely

Our bodies are one of our Heavenly Father’s most wonderful gifts. We are stewards over our bodies and we need to take care of this gift and utilize it in a way that would be pleasing unto the Lord. While you’re doing that, don’t forget to thank Him for this priceless gift!

Cami Checketts is a wife, mother, exercise scientist, and author. Her third novel, The Sister Pact, is in stores now. http://camicheckettsbooks.blogspot.com © 2010