Blessings

Several friends are doing a blogs or Facebook posts everyday in preparation for Thanksgiving.  Each day they are writing post about all of their blessings.  The posts have been super sweet and I enjoy reading them.  I wanted to do this, but I know I'm not going to be able to write everyday.  Just like most I am thankful for my family, friends and relationship with God, but this week I have been reminded of how blessed I am.

This week I encountered several situations at work that remind me of the struggles I have not encountered.  As a high schooler, I was fortunate to have parents to provide for all of my needs.  My family was never what I would consider wealthy, but I was never in need.  If I asked for money to take college entrance exams I got it.  On the morning of the test I never worried about how I would get to the testing site.  I've learned some don't go because they simply don't have a ride.  If I wanted to visit a college all I had to do was ask and my parents made the arrangements.  During my school years I was never sent home or called to the office for inappropriate clothing, but I also had parents at home that made sure I had clothing and would not let me leave home in unacceptable clothes.  I've realized the dreaded washing machine is also a luxury we never appreciated.  When a school trip was announced there was never a doubt I could go.  During the trip we might go to a restaurant and their was never a doubt about whether or not I could eat.  If I needed supplies for school I had them.  On a few occasions I missed the bus, but I always had a ride from my parents if needed.  My sister and I never considered coming home to a house with no power, but some do.  Did you ever want to play sports, but did not have the opportunity because your parents work and you don't have a ride home from practice?  I realize this is a bunch of random thoughts, but you  just might realize why I have left work in tears several times this week as I praised God for my many blessings. 

We are about to begin a very busy holiday season.  My prayer is each of us recognize the gifts we already have and bless others with some of the same.  Several friends and I have discussed how we have decided to make this year a slim Christmas.  With the current economy many are saving instead of spending.  Many of us have realized our children really don't NEED anything.  My husband and I are working to help our children realize how blessed they are.   I encourage everyone to consider your own blessings.  These gift unlike those wrapped up under the tree will last forever in our hearts.