It’s that time of year where we reflect on our blessings, where we want to improve and where we don’t want to change a thing. The holidays are also a time of year where there is not a lot of time for reflection. We are so busy running from store to store to find the perfect gift, we are online and ordering this and that, we are planning parties, planning family holiday dinners, figuring out what person that may have been forgotten while shopping, it’s getting the kids all they need for their functions – the list goes on and on.
Today, I am going to ask that you take 15 minutes to focus on what you have. Have you truly thought about it? Write down all that you are thankful for that you actually have. I know that some of the big ones may be God, Family, Job, House, etc.; however, I am going to ask you to dig deep – get those gears churning and before you know it you may fill up a page. When you feel you are done with your list, reflect on it daily. Add to the list when you think of other things and keep reviewing daily.
In my case, one of the simpler things I have and am blessed to have are 4 tile trivets that my dad made for me one Christmas. He grounded the tile, he shaped them, he put little cushioning feet on them so the trivet would not scratch my countertop – every moment he spent in making this gift, he was also pouring all his love into it. My dad passed a couple year’s ago and every time I see or use the trivets, I instantly think of my dad – how much he loved me, how much I miss him, but rejoice in the fact knowing I will see him someday at the pearly gates of Heaven and that there is a love bond left that will always be with me.
When I reflect on what I have, I have found that there is not much at all that I need. Everything I truly need, I actually have. That was one of my big lessons learned. What I thought I needed was really a want. Do I have to have that want now or can it wait? Nine times out of ten I don’t even have to have it now.
Now, if you do have needs that aren’t just wants, and you can’t seem to get ahead, there are many organizations and non-profits that may be able to assist you in your time of need.
Life is so short in the scheme of things – slow down and appreciate those that you love, appreciate those things that you have!
