Toilet Papers Musings for This Thanksgiving

~By Sharon Czerwien

Yes, I’m sorry for the title, but just recently, I was reflecting on toilet paper from our time in 2020. At the heart of COVID-19, we were not picky about brands, were we!? It is probably safe to say that we were utterly thankful to have a full pack at home. Plus, we were always grateful to see a pack to grab at the supermarket.

Fast forward to Fall, 2021…

I realized that I would grumble in the store aisles when I saw the prices of the name brand toilet paper. I would internally complain if I was stuck with the thin stuff at home or in public, too.

I am certainly not trying to be crude in conversation on a national holiday. It was just eye-opening to reflect on how quickly personal perspectives can change…and not in a good way, either!

The Better Way

I recently read through 1 Thessalonians. At the end of the last chapter, I saw many good and practical ways to please God. This particular section stood out to me…

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks" (1 Thess. 5:16-17a, NKJV).

Joy, thankfulness…these are traits that please God! When we’re complaining or miserable with a particular life bump, we are failing to think through what a heart of joy and thankfulness should look like.

When I grumbled about toilet paper options (when there were actually OPTIONS in the aisles this year), I was not showing a heart of thankfulness. In 2020, I would never have imagined I would ever complain about toilet paper again, but golly, sure enough, this year, I failed in this department (dad, did you catch the pun??)!!

This Thanksgiving

So, during this Thanksgiving (and beyond), I pray that I guard my heart and perspective with whatever happens…even in 2022! I encourage you to do the same.

Happy Thanksgiving! Debbie (mom) and I (daughter) are thankful for our readers and encouragers. God bless you all this holiday season.

~Sharon