Finding Gratitude in Surrender

Finding Gratitude in Surrender

As this season of Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself reflecting on surrender—not as a loss but as an act of trust, grounded in gratitude. Surrender can be difficult; it feels like leaving ourselves vulnerable to the unknown. But it’s through this vulnerability that I am learning to be truly free. 

The story of Elijah resonates deeply with me. When he retreats into the wilderness, feeling utterly alone and worn down, he is forced to rely on faith—a quiet trust in something larger than himself. Elijah’s journey shows that surrender is not passive; it’s a courageous act, a continual return to trust. In my own life, I see how surrender isn’t about letting go of everything, but rather about releasing the fears that keep me from being whole. It’s not about being numb to pain but finding purpose in it, and for that, I am grateful. For years, I avoided my own depths, afraid of the emotions I might find. I thought that I could shield myself. But Elijah’s story reminds me that surrender is not a one-time act; it’s a constant returning—a humbling, yet liberating process. 

This season has been about peeling away layers and embracing gratitude for all of it: the messiness, the realness, and the peace that comes with trusting in something beyond myself. My work at Sunday Seed is a daily reminder of this gratitude. Here, we are surrounded by individuals who teach me that even when we feel “too far gone,” we are never beyond reach. Working alongside survivors of trafficking, domestic violence, and homelessness, I see the resilience and courage it takes to rebuild a life. My coworkers, and Kelly, our steward, embody this quiet trust, showing up each day as a steady presence. They remind me that even our hardest days hold purpose, and that is a gift. 

This season, I am thankful to be part of a community that believes in second chances, in healing, and in hope. I am grateful to know that surrender is not a resignation, but a courageous act of trust. And if you feel moved by this, consider joining us in supporting Sunday Seed’s mission— whether by donating, shopping, or sharing our story. Together, we can remind those who feel lost that they are not alone, but part of something much greater. As Elijah’s mentee Elisha declared, “Do not be afraid, for there are more on our side than on theirs” (2 Kings 6:16). This Thanksgiving, let’s walk in that truth together, extending gratitude, trust, and hope to all.

Authored by Kimberly Piros, Sunday Seed Supply Employee