As I was contemplating a Gratitude theme this month, I was thinking about how grateful I am for 15 years in the organizing business. I recall talking to a seasoned organizer prior to starting my business. She said, “It’s the greatest job—you get to do what you love doing. When you’re done, your client thanks you, gives you a big hug, and writes you a check!” I am blessed enough without the checks, but since we’re not independently wealthy, I’m grateful for the checks as well.

Through the years over 450 people have invited me into their homes and offices. I understand it’s never easy to reveal what you’re challenged or embarrassed by, especially to a stranger. I’m grateful for my clients’ trust and hold that in high regard.

I’m thankful for the many wonderful clients who have become friends as well. It’s a gift to enter people’s lives, hear their stories, and journey with them to a more peaceful and productive environment.

Organizing also promotes gratitude in the hearts of clients. Today I received this note:

“Dear Brenda, I can’t thank you enough for all of your help. I’m feeling the good effects of your skill and involvement every day. I’m not overwhelmed by a cluttered home anymore…even when company’s coming! You’ve been a life-changer for me. Thank you! Thank you!” She went on to say how grateful she is that change is always possible when it comes to our habits and tendencies. New skills can be learned. Amen!

One couple’s eight-year-old grandson had never been inside their home due to clutter. We worked for weeks to uncover a beautiful living room, dining room, and kitchen. Clutter was a wall blocking out those they loved. How grateful they were when they could welcome him in.

“Oh, that’s where that was!” is a phrase I often hear. People are grateful as they discover treasures they had searched for—cash, vital documents, jewelry, and just some really useful stuff. It’s always a pleasure to rejoice with them.

After rehoming bins of paper to a user-friendly file system, a client told me what a difference it made for him, knowing right where to put things.

Sometimes it’s uncovering and giving an honored home to treasures from the past like I’ve done with my veteran client. And sometimes it’s releasing things from the past to make space for current priorities.

My life is enriched with each organizing encounter, but one stands out above the rest. In 2011, I stood on DeVonia’s doorstep, thinking I had something to offer her. And indeed, given the fact she was a widow with Multiple Sclerosis and bound to a wheelchair, her need was great. However, what she taught me about “being grateful in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) is a lesson that will last my lifetime.

Almost daily as I rise out of bed on my own and carry on my daily activities, I’m grateful for legs that work. I am grateful for DeVonia’s example of faith—waiting on God to provide her daily needs and always remembering to give thanks.

No matter her pain or challenge of the day, she greeted me with “God is good, and I am blessed.” The Lord graciously released her from her earthly pain in 2019. The last gift she gave me was a beautiful framed design with the word “Grateful” in the center.

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, it’s my prayer that we will be mindful of our blessings and express gratitude to the Giver of all good things.