Gratitude

There are those times in life when you don't feel deserving of something, and yet somebody gives you something anyway. Not something you asked for, just something they wanted to do. How do you react in such situations? Are you humbled? guilt-ridden? grateful? All of the above?

We speak of being a generous giver as well as a gracious receiver. I seem to struggle with both at times. Are you a better giver than receiver? I bet most people are.

How much does our lack of being a thankful recipient hinder another's blessings of giving? How does our Heavenly Father see it?

I am surrounded by people who love me. I don't always show them the love they deserve, but I try. Somehow my Heavenly Father loves me in spite of the weaknesses I possess. He knows what they are and I have to have faith that as I encounter them He is showing that He has a belief that I can overcome them. I suppose it's like an immunity. The more I am faced with the same challenges and struggles, the better I will get at withstanding and overcoming.

I am in a period of self-examination. You know, those times where you back up and look at yourself from the outside-in; as another person sees you instead of just the voice in your head and your face in the mirror.

I am filled with peace when I think of my life. Life is good. A great family, a warm home, a feeling of being needed. I have an abundance of blessings. What more could anyone ask for? I want my children to remember me as a grateful person. When I see Halloween in the stores being chased by Christmas stuff, I get a little sad that Thanksgiving is forgotten. I love the colors of green, brown and gold and everything they represent. Without that moment for our spirits to pause and ponder I believe something is lost.