why "friday joys"

About 6 or 7 years ago, I was given a book called, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voscamp.

I had no idea the impact it would have on me.

I had no idea I'd get a tattoo with the word introduced to me by Ann.

Eucharisteo.

It's a Greek word used many times in the Bible.

Thanksgiving.

The act of giving thanks.

"One Thousand Gifts" challenges you to start a journal, regularly adding to it new things that you are thankful for. 

Open windows. Hardwood floors. Chunky baby thighs.

It's an exercise to constantly set our mind on what we've been given and in turn, give Him thanks.

Though, when it's harder to see through the dark mess, my list has faltered.

But then, you can look within the word "eucharisteo" and see "charis."

Charis.

Another Greek word, which simply means: grace.

When I don't feel like I have anything to be thankful for, there's grace.

God has given me grace, even when/especially when I didn't/don't deserve it.

That's something to be grateful for.

One step deeper and you find a form of "chara"

Chara.

Joy.

What have I been given to be thankful for?

Grace.

Joy.

And every silly, wonderful thing in between.