Many years ago I learned the power of gratitude. We all have days, struggles, losses, trials, etc., where it takes all you can just to muster a breath, or the energy to get out of bed. During a period in my life, I was blessed...yes blessed, to go through such a time...a lengthy one at that..coupled with a newborn baby and a six year old by myself. It was a very challenging time, but one of the best things that ever happened to me. The blessings through the many lessons/experiences were invaluable!
The best analogy I can give is to say I dug myself into a hole...buried alive, to the point where I could barely breath. Not a pretty picture to paint, but the beauty and blessings that came from it can not be matched by anything on earth! It was as if God sat down...definitely shaking His head, maybe an eye roll or so...thinking when are you going to get it child!?! :) ..yet, lovingly stuck a straw down through the dirt and started to breath for me...and ever so gently started to dig me out the more I surrendered all my "junk" to Him! Infinite love!
It was like being a baby myself, learning to live all over again, but with a new freedom..Power..not of my own. Developing a faith and trust in God I had never known and the joy of being grateful for all times. Learning that everything is a blessings, either a step to climb, or sweet reward, there is always something good that comes from even the darkest of days....hopefully we don't have to wait decades to see it! :) There were days..situations where it was hard to have the strength to pray or express gratitude at all. On those days I pushed myself harder to find something, other than obvious ones, like family, friends, etc....and the better my days became.
There will always be situations that arise that are hurtful, difficult, & taxing, but my heart remains grateful for every moment. This past year I have lost, or know people who have lost, more loved ones than in my entire life combined, close friends battling cancers..young and old..accidents, illnesses, financial struggles, jobs lost. It causes you to stop, seize every moment, and reflect on those who mean the most to us, and what is truly important! My children are my greatest earthly treasures, and they have been marvelous teachers...though can be tough ones at times! :)
Through it all, thanks to God, I have seen the fruits of my trials.. the ability to see the best in all things, in all people, during the best and worst of times. For my joy lies in Christ alone which leaves me beholden to Him. I am full of thanks for my family and friends, for every moment we have, and for all the blessings showered upon us! My prayer for you is to know the fullness of God's love, how incredibly & wonderfully made you are, and that He gives you endless opportunities to be grateful each day of your life!!!
Abundant blessings to you now and always!
Janine
No comments:
Post a Comment