When Melanie and I made up our T-H-A-N-K-S-G-I-V-I-N-G acronym, we thought G should stand for good. There are so many things that are good about any holiday -- family gathers together, traditions are carried out, good food is eaten, good memories are made. But yesterday as I thought about putting some detail to this 'good' idea, I had a sudden stroke of inspiration and I can't seem to shake it.
Recently, my husband and two of my sons and I attended the musical Wicked in Seattle. If you're not familiar with this play, it is the pre-Dorothy story of OZ and in particular the relationship of two girls, one smart, fiery and misunderstood and the other beautiful, ambitious and very popular. Wicked unfolds the unimaginable explanation of how each becomes a witch in the emerald city.
As with any beloved musical it is hard to pick a favorite song, but I have an absolute favorite. It is a song that both witches sing to each other called, For Good.
G is For Good
I'm going to give you a week-long challenge, but first you'll have to watch this:
This is Kristin Chenoweth singing For Good. I know you're likely ramping up for a busy week, but I really think this will be four minutes of time well spent.
What I like most about these lyrics is the little twist that catches me every time I listen.
My challenge to you this week of Thanksgiving is to think of someone in your life (past or present) who has not just changed you for the better, but "for good" -- whose influence (positive or negative or anywhere in between) has enabled you to become permanently different in some way.
I think at the end of our lives, when we look back it will be those people and the experiences had with them that will stir the most profound gratitude.
So, while my first instinct for today's post was a list ("Martha" style) of Good Things, my heart has pointed me in a different direction. I hope you won't think I'm too weird, but I think this just might be the perfect time to give thanks for the people that inspire life-long change and growth in us.
Leave a comment and share one of your "for good" agents of change. Then, record the why on a scrapbook page.
p.s. One of my changed me "for good" friends is Genine Pack Smith. In short, she is the reason I am married to the right man (I think it's about time I told that story!) and I am SO THANKFUL to her and for her. She'll be getting a letter from me this week.
p.p.s. Come back tomorrow. Melanie and I will be sharing some favorite holiday recipes!
