Douglas Hadley

We packed our bags with breakfast inside and headed for downtown. We were walking along, enjoying the sights when I overheard a man, obviously homeless, speaking out loud saying, “Thank you, God,” repeatedly. “Thank you, God. Thank you, God. Thank you, God.” This caught my attention, so I listened more carefully. He continued, “Thank you, God. I haven’t eaten since yesterday. I’m hungry. But, God, I thank you.”

I told my wife what I had just witnessed, so she turned around and shouted, “Sir. Excuse me, sir. Would you like something to eat?” He immediately turned and said, “Thank you, God.” We gave him the breakfast box and I gave him all the Canadian change I had. He was so grateful. He repeated, “God bless you. God bless you.”

Here is the lesson I learned from this homeless man: He was thankful. He gave thanks to God for what he did not have, food. Yet, his thanksgiving brought him what he needed most. I truly believe he received the gift of food by giving thanks while having nothing. Giving thanks must be first and foremost. Out of our grateful hearts, we are fed mentally, spiritually, and physically.

Thank you, sir, for giving me a lesson in gratitude. May God continue to bless you as you continue with a thankful heart and attitude. May I be just as thankful in times of lean and plenty.