So I decided to make a list... now, I am starting this list at 11:42pm so keep in mind, I am tired and this is not comprehensive by any means (and they are in no particular order, I am just typing as the thoughts come).
I am Grateful for:
1. My husband. There have been many a time that I gloat that I have the best husband out there... well, I really feel that way. He is not perfect and neither am I, but we are perfect for each other. I am grateful that he will hold me when I cry. I am grateful that he picks up my slack and will do the laundry or whatever else needs to be done. I am grateful that he is an amazing dad... it really says something when your son cries every morning when Tommy leaves for work. I am so grateful that he honors his Priesthood, that at any time I can ask for a blessing and know that he is worthy to deliever one. I am grateful that he is extremely service oriented - he is a great example to me of sacrifice. I am grateful that he talks to me, about everything. I am grateful for the way we are able to communicate and try to work through a problem or struggle together.
2. Graham. How lucky am I that I have this awesome kid around all day?!?! And that he calls me "Mom"?!?! I am grateful that he will give me hugs and kisses whenever I ask for it (and even when I don't). I am grateful that he is so passionate. I am grateful that he is loving and accepting of everyone. I am grateful that he wants to be a big brother. I am grateful for his temper tantrums, that I can help him to learn and grow, just like my Father in Heaven is trying to help me learn and grow (when I throw my temper tantrums). I am grateful for his laugh, because it makes me laugh. I am grateful for his tender heart.
3. Faithful friends. Most of the guidance and comfort I have recieved is from those who understand. While it makes me sad that they have been through similiar situations, there definitely is strength in numbers. I love each of them. I am grateful for friends who have not been through situations like this but have reached out to me and have helped me carry the load.
4. Family. Who know there is nothing to say, but are just there for us. I am grateful that they make us laugh and help us forget our sorrows. I am grateful that we are sealed. That we will be together forever, even in the life after death.
5. Email. Yeah, NEVER thought I would say that!! I usually stay away from all things that have to do with technological communication, most people get my voicemail before they ever talk to me for this reason; however, email has been one of my saving graces through all of this. When I knew I couldn't talk to anyone about it (because no one would be able to understand a word through the blubbering) I could write... and they responded! In the same breath, I am thankful for Facebook. I am thankful that I was able to communicate privately with friends that otherwise I would not have been able to.
6. Prayer. There have been many times I don't even know what to pray for and I tend to ramble and get distracted, but I still know that Heavenly Father is listening. He knows me, loves me and is trying to help me get through this trial. Many people don't have that knowledge, that we are Children of God. I think it has been so engrained into me that I don't fully appreciate the peace that knowledge brings. I am grateful to know I am a daughter of God and He loves me.
7. Jesus. Enough said, right? Without Him, I wouldn't get out of bed. I am grateful for a dear friend that taught me more about the Atonement of my Savior. That taught me, to find Christ; to read of Him, and learn of Him, is to find peace and healing. I have always known how the Atonement helps the sinner, but I have now learned how He heals the broken heart. Matt 11:29 "...learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls." I am grateful for that new knowledge, it is something that I will always cherish.
8. My Calling. I am a Relief Society teacher and I have been preparing my lesson for the end of the month. It is Pres. Uchtdorf's talk on Patience... how fitting! But it is an unbelievable talk and I have found peace in his words (if you haven't read it, do!!! It was from April's Priesthood session). Patience is Godly.
9. My House. In less than two weeks we close on our new house. I am grateful for the opportunity we have to buy a home. It has been a blessing everyday that I go to see it, and something new is happening... the walls are painted, the cabinets are in, the carpet is laid. It has been something to look forward to even when I don't want to look forward. I am grateful for the road that God has taken us on the last year (or so) to get us where we are.
10. Sophie. My dog is so sweet and I think she has been extra lovey to me lately. I am grateful that she finally learned how to play fetch, it supplies Graham and I with hours of entertainment.
11. My Visiting Teaching Companion. Lori, You are Awesome! I am grateful that we stood in the middle of the street last night and talked for two hours about everything. I am grateful for the friendship that has grown because of your concern for me. I am grateful that I had someone at church, even when I thought I didn't.
12. A Past Relief Society President, and dear friend. Shelly, she is a rock and I pull strength from her. I am grateful that she sacrificed several hours from her life (on short notice) for me. I am grateful for all that she has taught me over the last 6 years, especially what she has taught me in the last month.
13. Cheap Berries. Seriously! I bought cheap berries and made Jam, and it made me happy when not much else would. I am grateful for the motivation I had to make Jam, I needed that and it definitely didn't come from myself!
14. Crisp Morning Air. I love fall and am grateful for the change of season. It actually seems fitting : a change of a season. It makes me think of Ecclesiastes (or the Beattles, whichever)
15. Caprese Salad for Breakfast. It's what I had today and it was delicious. It is one of my favorite things.
16. A Job. My own as well as Tommy's. I am grateful for how many new clients I have. I am grateful that I have been busy since I have been back from TX, I know it is a blessing from God. I am grateful for Tommy's job; that he can take a day off to go on Graham's field trip with us, for a knowledge of job security(as much as you can have right now at least), for the caring people that work with him, and that I am able to stay home with Graham because he is able to provide for our family.
17. My Personality. I know it is actually one of my "gifts". And what a gift it is to be able to (and want to) smile and to laugh.
... so it isn't much, and it isn't all... But I am so blessed. Counting your blessings does help uplift you, I can attest to that.
When upon life's billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings; name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings; every doubt will fly,
And you will be siging as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you his wealth untold.
Count your many blessings; money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven nor your home on high.
So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged; God is over all.
Count your many blessings; angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey's end.
Count your blessings name them one by one.
Count your blessings see what God has done.
1 comment:
Thanks for sharing this post, Annie! So many people count you as a blessing!
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