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As widows, there are certain dates that we hold on to closer than others.

Safely nestled in our hearts, cherished forever are the milestones: the birth of children, family vacations, and of course the day we became a wife…our wedding day. Kenny and I got married on Thanksgiving Day!

When Kenny first proposed to me we toyed with different dates of when to exchange our vows. Then a friend suggested Thanksgiving because the family would already be around and food would not be lacking. We needed our wedding small because we were building our first home and our wedding budget was very limited.

Thanksgiving Day was perfect!

As our wedding preparations began I imagine they were similar to every other – flowers, cake, dress, accommodations for out-of-town guests, etc. Although the menu did not fit the mold of a typical wedding reception, it most certainly mirrored countless other Thanksgiving Feasts complete with turkey, stuffing, casseroles, and pies.

Needless to say, I cherish this holiday for more than “just” Thanksgiving. As the familiar aromas fill the air this time of year my memory takes me back to the day it all began for us. Being so young then I honestly can’t say that I fully appreciated and understood the covenant that was made that day but I do now and for that, I’m thankful.

Some may think the “Kenny and Amy” story ended between our 21st and 22nd anniversary but they would be wrong because with every breath and step I take, our story lives! You see, although Kenny is no longer my husband, love was the foundation that our life was built on. And as the dust continues to settle from the catastrophic day I joined you in widowhood, there is one thing that remains: the foundation of love.

Many of us share this day as our first Thanksgiving without our loved ones.

But if I have learned just one thing in this season of widowhood, it is that healing comes through praise and thanksgiving!

And though I have two “firsts” today, I’m spending it the same way I did the day Kenny and I became husband and wife: giving thanks.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)

Father, I thank You that we can give thanks during any circumstance. We’re thankful that through each season You comfort us and bring us peace. I pray that You touch every sister and bring healing to the areas in their heart that may be raw with pain. Thank You for loving us beyond what we shared with our spouse and thank You that through every loss one thing remains- Your love. You are worthy of all praise and honor. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.