Gratitude for Every Season of Life

Have you ever experienced a moment so perfect you wish you could hold onto it forever? Recently, I had one of those moments. The sun was shining, it was a crisp 72 degrees—the quintessential fall day.

As I drove, my youngest, Josiah, was in the backseat, fully immersed in?DogMan. He’s read those books countless times and laughs like it’s the first. Eventually, he dozed off. Meanwhile, Jon, my little artist, sketched away quietly. Together, we vibed to music—our shared love. One of my new favorites,?Love Lies, played softly. It even sparked a deep conversation about romantic love, a memory I’ll carry with me.

In that moment, I felt a profound wave of gratitude—grateful to be their mom and for this season of life.

Motherhood isn’t without its challenges. Regret, guilt, and self-doubt are familiar companions. But on days like this, I’m reminded of the beauty in being present. Josiah is 8, Jon is 10, and in precisely 8 and 10 autumns, they’ll be off to college. These simple car rides, filled with laughter and music, will become cherished memories.

The gratitude I feel extends beyond parenting. It’s about embracing every season of life and understanding its importance. I've always loved Proverbs 10:5 because it reminds us to,?“Know the importance of the season you’re in...”?Life, work, and leadership all have seasons—each with its lessons and opportunities.

Reflecting on this scripture, I realize the power of recognizing just where you've been planted. Are you in a season of learning, perhaps as a new professional, gaining clarity and discipline? Or maybe you're a leader, balancing relationships with the weight of responsibility. For some, this might be a season of striving for executive leadership and navigating accountability while casting a vision for others.

Every season comes with its burdens, but it also offers moments of joy, growth, and reflection. By shifting our focus to what we can learn and appreciate, we survive and thrive.

This Thanksgiving season, take inventory of where you are. What is this moment teaching you? What opportunities are waiting for you to notice and embrace? Whether you're navigating parenthood, leadership, or life’s unexpected challenges, hold onto the precious moments and lessons this season offers.

Take a moment today to pause, reflect, and act with gratitude. The season you’re in—right now—has more value than you may realize.