Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8, NRSV)

Friends, it's nearly Thanksgiving in the U.S. and it's the time of year when we are pressed to name things for which we are thankful. Songbird challenges us to offer a twist on the usual lists and use Paul's letter to the church at Philippi as a model.

Name five things that are true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent or worthy of praise. These could be people, organizations, acts, ideas, works of art, pieces of music--whatever comes to mind for you.

1. The Ichetucknee river -- the bestest and most pleasant place on this earth (IMHO)

2. Worship, especially singing, especially unmessed-up classic hymns.

3. The folks who work in the service industry, especially the thankless jobs that we take for granted but rely on. The folks who do those things that can make day good or bad for all the rest of us.
4. Chocolate -- 'nuff said
5. My kitties and their little warm bodies on cold nights.