Thankful

There are so many problems and heartache in this world. My mission president and his wife once told a group of us missionaries that they often prayed in gratitude for all of the problems they didn't have. This week I have felt humbled by the circumstances of so many and it certainly makes me grateful for my very normal and simple life.

I could look at those with lots of money and think how fun it would be to travel more and honestly, sometimes I do, but today I am grateful that I don't have to worry about where I am going to sleep tonight or what I am going to feed my family. I don't have to stress about clothing or how to get around or if my kids are safe playing outside. I don't have to worry about their behavior at school or their health. I am not in a hospital being treated for a terrible disease and I am not in chronic pain. I am not concerned that when my husband gets home he is going to hurt me or be unkind to me in any way. I don't have to worry about substance abuse or drunken behavior or consequences of such. I don't have to worry about the police coming and taking a family member away for no reason or for executing someone in the street for not wearing the right clothing.



I can't even continue. Billions of people have lived in such deplorable circumstances throughout history because of war, corrupt governments, crime, drugs and alcohol, abuse, poverty and infidelity. To live in a peaceful country where I am allowed to worship God as I choose and educate myself and my children and my husband can earn a good living is an incredible blessing. To have good, obedient children who are generally kind and loving and who are healthy, is another incredible blessing. To belong to the true Church of Jesus Christ and have all the knowledge  of scripture and a loving God and the necessary ordinances for salvation as well as a living prophet is an amazing blessing. To have a husband who adores me and does all he can for my happiness, as well as being a wonderful father and provider, is the joy of my life.

Seriously, if you ever hear me complain again, please tell me to just stop it. Life is so good. Even in its challenges, God is with us and can lift us up and help us overcome or be up to the task.