Wow, I can’t believe there’s only one more day left with this project! Despite having nights were I felt too tired to post or, when I wasn’t online, I came about a millimeter away from finding a reason NOT to catch back up, I’m so glad that I stuck to it, kept my word to myself and continued to take note of the things that make me feel grateful and/or thankful! Ok, I guess I should save the sappy stuff for tomorrow (the last day) so, until then, let me move forward with tonight’s quote and list. For the quote, I came across the following:
“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” — Epictetus
Now, aint that the truth?! If I chose to think of all the things I DON’T have, I could probably write for hours but what would be the point? In the end, I would end up having lost precious time that I could have used being grateful, spending time with God, spending time with my family/friends of doing something else to improve myself. So, with that said, I’m going to follow suit with Epicetus’ suggestion and rejoice for the things I have but, for a twist, I’m going to compare/contrast what I don’t have with what I do have…just to remind myself that God provides EVERYTHING, in his own way!!
Tonight, I am grateful/thankful for:
1. Our home – It may not be the custom home I’ve dreamt of designing, but it’s safe, comfortable, peaceful and more than a roof over our heads!
2. Food - Even though I haven’t always had what I WANTED to eat, I’ve never gone hungry or gone without, like those who have truly experienced starvation.
3. My parents - They may have not been Cliff and Claire, but they loved us, provided for us and taught us things about God and life that have carried us through the hard times.
4. Health – Plenty of times I’ve complained about my asthma/chronic lung issues, aches/pains, etc., but I’m grateful that my body is strong, heals fast and I know that there a millions of people with illnesses that would gladly trade bodies with me so…no complaints!
5. My career – Although there are times I feel absolutely drained from work, I’m more than grateful for having a job and, on top of that, one that allows me to be a blessing to others EVERY DAY!
6. My Sweeter 1/2 - For a long time I found myself wanting to change him into the cookie cutter, “perfect” man but I am so thankful that God opened my eyes and allowed me to accept and love him for himself. As a result, I am head-over-heels, nose wide open, crazy about him and I totally appreciate the nerdy, quirkiness of our relationship!
7. My family - Crazy/strange/dysfunctional or whatever I’ve been known to say about us, I’m so thankful that I am not alone in this world and I have these bunch of people to count on!
8. My car - It’s not that 1969 or 2011 Camaro, but it’s still fly, reliable, safe and gets me from point a to b with consistency!
9. Peace – Unlike the mental and spiritual place that I’ve referred to in the past as “my peaceful place”, the peace that I know now is true, serene and a place without worry! I’m so grateful that I’ve learned not to worry and rest in God, knowing that he always has my best interest at heart!
10. Letting go of the past – Like never before, I find myself being able to let go of things that weren’t the best feeling (frustration, anger, bad moods, etc.) and move forward! Not too long ago, my mood could be all over the place in a matter of minutes but, now, I’m less likely to hold a grudge, stay mad, etc., and I can not tell you how freeing this change has been for me…it’s AWESOME!
Ok, I’ve talked waaay more than I planned tonight but, hey, I’m thinking it was simply meant to be! =) That’s it for tonight and, until later, I send you all hugs, kisses and prayers for you to experience the joy that only God can provide!
