SCRIPTURE VERSE: And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ~ Col 3:17 (NIV)
QUOTE: Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this light. ~ Albert Schweitzer
Two years ago I began Party of One, A Fellowship for Those Tired of Dining Alone. We’ve been meeting a couple of times a month since then.
Is coordinating these Party of One events work? Some say it is. Why doesn’t it feel like work to me? Maybe because any “work” I put into it comes back as a blessing–both for me and for those who attend.
Just recently, my husband and I hosted a Party of One gathering at our home. I wanted the November luncheon to have a Thanksgiving flavor and planned to go around the room and ask people to state one thing they were thankful for. In the flurry of food and fellowship, I forgot my plan. I sent a quick email the next day offering this:
I’m thankful for all you Party of One-ers who graced our home with your presence on Saturday. I’m also thankful for those who have joined us this past year. I enjoy you all! ~ Clarice
In return, I got these responses:
I am thankful to be alive and I never want to forget the cancer patients who are having a rough go of it. During my time at the radiation center another cancer patient made sea shell angels and she gave them away to the other patients. I have this sea shell angel on my dresser and I look at it every day because I never want to forget how fortunate I am. ~ Sandy
I am thankful for you, Clarice and Jerri. Without u there may be no group as this one. I am grateful 2 God 4 life also. ~ Karen S.
The one thing I am most thankful for is a loving God who is always present to me. . . and present in many ways, through many people. You are one of the ways God is present in my life. See you in the New Year. Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving. ~ Karen L.
Thank you Clarice. It was nice to see you all, keep in touch.
By the way, I am thankful for all the nice groups, and my church, my family that give meaning and love to my life. ~ Jo
One woman even took the time to write a lovely letter:
The dining event held in your home was delightful and many thanks for being such a gracious hostess . . . The Party of One is becoming a staple for many of us single diners and I feel blessed to be part of the gathering. It is a unique opportunity to meet interesting people from all walks of life.
Indeed at this time of the year, I am reminded to ponder and appreciate the quality of friendships gained this past year. I am grateful for the opportunity to be in the presence of a kind facilitator as you who fosters a sincere interest in keeping the spirit of kinship alive via these dinning around events.
Once again, I sincerely appreciate and enjoy myself tremendously. In every gathering event. ~ Yvette
I’d like to add a few more Party of One things I’m grateful for:
- My husband David. How many husbands would consent to their wives starting a group for singles? In two years time, he’s only missed one event!
- My sister-in-love Jerri Spearman who has a heart for lonely people and the boldness to invite them.
- Good food I don’t have to cook!
- New friends! When I moved to NH seven years ago, I only knew one person.
- The faithful attendees who are willing to drive making it possible for others to come.
- Getting to know my way around my new state.
- The smiling servers at all the restaurants who put up with our tardiness, yakking, and separate checks.
- Stories, characters and laughter.
- The privilege to pray for Party of One-ers and their families.
- Finally, I am grateful to the Lord, who led me (then nudged me) into this wonderful adventure!
Happy Thanksgiving!