It seems to me that if we begin with a grateful heart and prayer, everything in life works better. I certainly know that "giving thanks in all circumstances" can be very difficult when we are facing challenges. As I write this, Allen is still in the hospital, so I'm seeing life challenges from a very different perspective. We have both enjoyed remarkably good health and have had to face few really serious challenges in our 38+ years together. This challenge, like all of the challenges we have faced, has been met by praying without ceasing, faith in a positive outcome, and a grateful heart.

How can we feel grateful during a 6-day+ hospital stay? We're grateful for the wondrously made body that through its symptoms advises us that something needs attention. We are grateful for the guidance to go to the hospital, for the excellent doctors, nurses, technicians - everyone who has been involved with Allen's health challenge. We are also very grateful for a loving, supportive board of trustees (current and past), the staff, and for all of you who are praying without ceasing for a positive outcome.

The offers of support from so many of you have meant so much to us! I have heard from many of you that you can't imagine going through a challenge without the support of your church community. I have always understood that thought, and now I have totally experienced the meaning of having a loving church community holding us in prayer and offering support in numerous ways. It's a new experience and a very humbling one to be on the other side of a challenge. Yet, there is a place for gratitude and giving thanks in all circumstances, just as the Apostle Paul wrote to the fledging church community of the Thessalonians.

Tampa Unity has 80 years of good, solid history of rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in all circumstances. This is just one more reason we can be grateful during a challenge, because we know that God guides us in all our ways and our health, happiness, and prosperity are assured. How grateful we are that God guided us to Tampa Unity and that each of you has followed your guidance to Tampa Unity!