Thankful

Too often, I don't pause to thank God for all of my blessings. It is far too easy for me to coast through life and feel entitled to the great life I have. Sure, I am thankful for my family. But how often do I really compare my situation with that of others and realize how good I really have it? I have never gone hungry, not had a warm place to sleep, or felt unloved. Sure, I am thankful for my health. But, have I ever had to face a life-threatening illness or debilitating disease? Sure, I feel like I received a good education. But, I never faced uncertainty that I would attend college, or even finish high school.

I listened to a charismatic speaker earlier that caused me to be a great deal more thoughtful about inequity in our world. It made me want to rage against injustice. It also made me want to express much more thankfulness.

Thank you, God, for a loving family and a stable home and a good childhood. Thank you, God, for my never having had to face cancer, or AIDS, or anything remotely serious healthwise. Thank you, God, for the opportunity to grow and learn. Thank you, God, for my future husband and his family (soon to be mine). Thank you, God, for all of my forgotten blessings. Thank you, God, most of all for your love, grace, and mercy. Lord, always keep my heart grateful for all that you have given me. And, God, please pour out these same blessings on all of your children.