Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated in Cambodia (indeed, Christmas isn’t either.) So I had normal work at the school all day, hence why I’m writing the post after Thanksgiving. We’ll have our Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow, Sabbath. It’s Friday evening now, about 8:00 local time. I live in the eastern highlands of Cambodia, and winter is coming on. That means temperatures down to 15 degrees (59 F) and constant, gusty winds. No snow, for sure… But remember home heating systems are non-existent here, so this is plenty cold enough. (If it got much colder, it’d be a national emergency; the homes here only keep out rain and sunlight.)
But there are so many things that I am thankful for.
To start, Thanksgiving was my first day back at work after recovering from Covid. My Kindergarten and 4th graders were ecstatic to have me teaching and playing with them in real life instead of over Zoom. It’s just about impossible to walk through the gym without a dozen kids coming for high fives, wanting to play a game, or just simply to say “hello!” “hello Teacher!” “Teacher how are you?” “See what I have, Teacher?!” For sure, I’m thankful for these kids, and their enthusiasm and love and life that never dims.
And, for health and life. For the beautiful place I live, perched above the edge of the valley. For an incredible group of family and friends that spans continents. For the opportunity to share just a bit of His endless love. For those who faithfully shared that love with me, some of whom I am sure never realized it.
I’m also thankful that my God never stops seeking, never forsakes, is always there with arm outstretched to help us up when we fall. “When I fall, I will arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.” He sees into my soul and “comprehends my thought” like nobody else can. And he’s promised to someday fulfill the desires of my heart.
Actually, every good thing that I have can be traced back to Him, somehow.
So, heavenly Father, thank you… And may we never forget your blessings.
3 thoughts on “A Cambodian Thanksgiving”
Happy Sabbath. Jared. Thank you for remembering all good things come from our heavenly Father, and for so willingly sharing in Cambodia. May the children never forget your kindness and the stories of Jesus you have told them. Book
Thanks for sharing, Jarad.
You are doing a good job there Jared, may God continue to bless you as you share your life and love with others!
We miss you,
Eldon and Ronnie