This morning I have been reflecting on, and being grateful for books, people, and events that has shaped my life. This has been brought about because I am catching up with some old friends, including one that I haven’t seen in 40 years.

I am in Portland for most of October. It turns out I know several people here. It’s been wonderful to catch up with these old friends. To hear about their journeys and to share some of my stories. It’s also been great to meet some new people and hear how their lives have changed and lessons learned that shape their lives.

I often share books that have moved me. I sometimes remember the content of the book, but not the title. In these cases I often pull up my post books that have really changed me. Alas, a few times the book’s title I am trying to remember isn’t on that page.

This morning I updated the page with a couple of the books that were missing. As I was adding the book  Love Your Enemies by Arthur Brooks, I was reminded of how Doug Goins exemplified the content. Doug was full of grace and wisdom. He knew how to listen and to find common ground with others. I continue to be inspired by Doug’s generous and humble spirit, and pray that I can be more like him.

I had planned on going for a hike today, but I missed the group. Instead, I find myself sitting on the couch, looking down on Portland, the light softened by the rain, framed by beautiful trees, warm and dry, with a cup of tea, luxuriating in the memories of blessings that have shaped my life. I don’t have time to write them all down. That will have to wait for another day.

Are there books or people who changed your life?  If so, would you share them with me… or better yet, write a thank you note to the person or author. If they have passed, write a thank you to their spouse or family.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.

Psalm 107:1-3