Thanksgiving: A Time for Joyful Reflection Among the PBA Community

"What if today, we were just grateful for everything," may be a statement originating from the beloved cartoon icon Charlie Brown, but it is just as much a sentiment that is embraced and embodied by many here at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Whether it be for family, friends, opportunities, or just the breath in their lungs, there is no shortage of gratitude among staff and students this Thanksgiving season. A few members of our PBA community were asked to tell us what they are most thankful for as the holiday approaches. Here is what they said:

For two scientifically minded upperclassmen, senior Jon Austin and junior Joshua Loe, the opportunity for service unto God is reason enough to give thanks.

Austin, a biology major, shared his gratitude for his upcoming tenure at seminary and current opportunities to be involved in a local church. He also mentioned his thankfulness towards his family, as they have wholly supported him in his call to ministry.

Marine biology major and Watson Hall Discipleship Leader, Joshua Loe, voiced his immense gratitude towards the holy sovereignty of God. "It's been very clear this is where God wants me in life…I wouldn't be able to do this on my own," shared Loe, earnestly. He added that his life is a direct product of "His grace."

For two beloved campus servants, their responses were as on brand as they were heartfelt.

Area Coordinator of Oceanview and Pembroke Halls, Dan Read, resolutely said "I'm most grateful my situation: my wife, my dog, my job…my family."

Fittingly, Workship Director, Nathan Chau, gave thanks for "students who have the heart to serve and meet the needs of the community."

For sophomores Malik Brave and Claire Burchill, Thanksgiving is an ample time to appreciate the PBA community and their personal mentors.

"I'm thankful for the wisdom and guidance I receive from those who are ahead of me…how they counsel me and help give me direction," said Brave, a ministry leadership major.

"I'm thankful to be alive… and for the community here that God has provided me," shared Burchill, a business administration major. "I'm thankful to have great leaders that push me," she added.

For Professor of Politics, Dr. Francisco Plaza, family is truly everything.

When asked where his thankfulness lies, Dr. Plaza seized the opportunity to express his gratitude for his wife, seven children, and three grandchildren.

This Thanksgiving our encouragement to you is to find at least three things you are grateful for.

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thessalonians 5:18

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