Thankfulness...What is it?

By Anitra Medlock

Thankfulness... what is it? Just thinking about what to be thankful for can be difficult at times. Especially when your days have seen more clouds than sunshine. As I continue to walk out this journey, I’m reminded of a time shortly after my husband passed away... it was such a dark time for me. I hated waking up and hated going to bed. Waking up reminded me that I was not dreaming. My days began to run together. One night I laid down in my bed and began to cry uncontrollably. I screamed, I yelled, I cried some more. Finally I said, “Father if you love me, make my tears stop.” Immediately, I felt a calming presence surround me and go through me. I stopped crying right then. I felt how real God was in that very moment. I shared that to say, in that moment I was thankful. Thankful that God hears me and comforts me.

Is it hard to be thankful when you’ve gone through heartache, pain and disappointment? Last month was the 9-year anniversary of my husband’s death. This “suddenly single” life can be tricky. It can be filled with days of pain and nights of anguish. I must be honest, I am still learning how to be thankful in all things.

But single dope black chick, “be thankful!” Be thankful for your strength in times of weakness, your perseverance in times of wanting to give up, your virtuous character in times of despair, and your singleness... for it allows you to be free. Be thankful for who you are, be thankful for where you are and be thankful for how you are getting there. I would not be where I am right now if I stayed where I was nine years ago; for this, I am grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Anitra Medlock was born in Rochester, NY. She is the oldest of 3 siblings and has 2 children. She relocated to Atlanta, Georgia in 2015 where she continued a career in healthcare. Just recently she decided to live out her passion and started teaching in Special Education this past January. Anitra loves to write, listen to music and podcasts of motivational speakers. Anitra is a dedicated mom, supporting her children in both sports and academics. In her spare time, you’ll find her at the movies (more so for the popcorn than the film itself) or perusing neighborhoods looking at new homes. Anitra is currently pursuing her certification in teaching and plans to obtain her doctorate in educational leadership in the near future. Want a good read for your new beginning? Anitra is currently reading, “The Energy Bus” by Jon Gordon.