Seasons Greetings!

Hey Tribe, I have been thinking about all of the things in my life that I’m thankful for. We are in that time period between Thanksgiving and Christmas where the days get shorter and colder (at least up here in the U.P.), and life tends to slow down for a bit. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the pressures we all put on ourselves. We need to get gifts for the ones we love, the stress of family get togethers, the weather impacts for travel, plus regular everyday life stressors. I am trying to better manage all of that as I’ve gotten older.

I try to take it all in stride and not let those pressures get to me, but I’m human like the rest of you. What I try to keep in perspective during this time are all the things that I’m thankful for and how blessed I truly am.

Expectations

It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial hype of the season, to be bombarded with ads of the latest and greatest thing out there. I understand it’s the advertisers job to sell stuff, but I find it pretty unhealthy when you are potentially left with envy for things you don’t have. I tend to be an early adopter when it comes to technology and I get swayed by the newest gadget. I don’t need it, but the ad sparks the “want.”

Perspective

Take a step back and get down to the basics. I am truly blessed! I have a warm home, food on my table, a safe place to sleep at night, and I’m living the dream I have had all these years to be off grid, developing self reliance and independence. My health is good, as is my family’s. I may not have all of the material things I want, but I have plenty to be grateful for.

I have this job where I get to interact with some amazing teammates and learn from them. I am thankful for you, our tribe members, who are helping build community here on the blog, our FaceBook, Instagram, and YouTube sites.

Faith

Finally, I am most thankful for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His birth truly is the reason for this season. A foundation in faith is such a grounding experience, allowing for joy and gratitude for all that we have been given.

I wish for all of you a safe holiday season, with renewed joy, perspective, and gratitude for all of life’s blessings!