Recently it seems I have been a little bombarded with the notion of being grateful for all that I have and the need to stop worrying about the few things that I do not. While this is definitely easier said than done, I do feel that this is something that needs to become my focus. I have done a very good job recently of murmuring that while I know I am truly blessed, there are a few things that I desperately long for and do not seem to be getting. I am very grateful for this bombardment and for the little reminders that have come my way.
My sister in law Misti's family created a wall of gratitude. For FHE, they gave their kiddos sticky notes to write the things they were grateful for and then they stuck the list on the wall. Seriously, they filled up a good chunk of their livingroom walls. It was amazing to me the things that they were grateful for.... like fabreeze, spoons, forks, the number 40, etc. While I chuckled at some of these items, I realized that I would be lost without Fabreeze, spoons, forks and the number 40. The kiddos, Im sure were having a good ol time just trying to fill up the wall, but it was a fabulous reminder to me of all the things that I take for granted.
A few weeks later, the state of Arizona had a fabulous state wide stake conference. It seemed to me that the entire conference was based on the topic of remembering Heavenly Father in all things, especially remembering to thank Heavenly Father for all the gifts that he gives, which is many. This struck me very hard, because it was specifically stated that our focus needs to be on showing gratitude for the gifts we have rather only focusing on the things we do not.
I am definitely trying to get the message. So while it is quite easy for me to focus on all things I lack, I am going try to show my Heavenly Father that I know that I am truly am blessed and that while my life is definitely far from perfect, it is good and I am grateful for all that I have.
