We hiked for hours in the sun to get this picture. It was hard. But my daughter would tell you it was worth it. Life is hard, but there is joy. And I think you have to find the beauty and joy where it lies. If you wait for it to come find you, it never will. Because life is funky and it is one twisted path leading to where you are. You’ve got to reach out and give joy a hand up-or down, depending. And it will give you a piggy back ride back to the top. No matter what is happening. It’s a hard thing to start, when things look bleak, but all you have to do is take one step. Just one. Take the first step. And then the second will follow. And then the third. And smile, because that gives joy a light wherewith to find you.
I’m saying all of this because I’m struggling at the moment. But I know it works. So here is my joy:
-A good, hardworking, devoted husband.
-Good children. And I mean good. And funny. And quirky.
-Friends, good and kind.
-Health. There are issues, but I’m not dying.
-A home.
-Food.
-Music. Whenever I want to hear it or sing it.
-Abilities that let me enjoy life – singing, writing, dancing. Even if no one else listens or reads, or watches, it lifts me up. And if it lifts you up, yay! Another blessing.
-A car, that turned out not to cost the $1,200 I was expecting for its repairs
-Books. Books. Books. And did I mention music?
-Portobella mushrooms
-Xylitol
-Clothes. Nudity is overrated. Especially after 4 kids.
-Shoes
-Running water, indoor plumbing, and soap.
-My eyes. I can see. Bifocals or not.
-Art
-Theater
-Tons more that I could list but I am making cookies for the kidlets and must go check on them.
-And certainly not least, God.
‘Kay. Thanks. I feel better now.
What are you grateful for?
Thank-you for the reminder, I needed it. I'm wondering why I always have to be so totally steeped in the "Woe is Me's" to remember how fortunate I am. Geez.
As I get older, one of the things I am most thankful for is a growing group of friends who like me for who I really am. They've taken the time to know me – and they love me anyway. These guys are always there for me when I need a reality check or when things get hard.
Ah Janiel, thanks for posting this! I forget to be grateful for the wonderful and beautiful things around me. One thing I am truly and forever grateful for is you and your loving family. I love you all so much, and I am so blessed by my associations with you all! 🙂 Also, brownies are a blessing, yup yup! And childrens! I miss little kids here at school, who'da thunk it?? love you!!! 🙂
Look at how great you all are!