Every day when I sit down to write, I imagine you, my reader. Are you like me, wanting to stay informed about currrent events but not wanting to drown in it? Do you want something else to think about for a few minutes? I know I want reprieve from the constant coverage of something that may or may not materialize in any sort of dramatic way.

I genuinely wish I had a basket full of funny anecdotes to pass along. But I don’t. Although I do think my general view of things tends to see the humorous. Today I took my granddaughter to the doctor for a recheck of her ears and decided to brave the grocery store at the same time. It wasn’t too bad. There was even toilet paper which I didn’t need but it was there.

As I observed the contents in the carts around me, I was filled with gratitude. Gratitude for fresh fruits and vegetables. Gratitude that I know how to prepare a meal from fresh ingredients. Thank you, Mom, for teaching me what to do with a buttercup squash and fresh asparagus.

I’m convinced that a spirit of gratitude makes all the difference. In 2008, the last time our economy took a serious nose dive, I experienced some serious anxiety. At the time, a friend gave me a plaque that said, “Celebrate Abundance!” And that is what we did. We celebrated an abundance of love and joy around the dinner table, a table filled with home cooked food, board games and great conversations with friends who truly loved us. There is so much to be grateful for and I truly believe that counting my blessings will make all the difference to me.

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

How about you? What are you grateful for today? I’d love to be overwhelmed with your expressions of gratitude!

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