Things I am Grateful For

Some personal reflections for today, before I go back to heavy-hitting politico-religious commentary. :-)

In previous posts (see "Being Happy with What You've Got") I've talked about the importance of gratitude. It's important not just because it's a nice personal or moral quality, but also because if you don't practice remembering and being grateful for what you've got, you're missing out on the enjoyment of the bulk of your relationships, and, for that matter, your stuff.

So, while there are many things to pray for, which I will list AFTER the rest of this post, I'm going to start with some of the things I'm grateful for (in no particular order):

1. I am grateful for my job, which is challenging--on certain levels--but allows me to leave every night at a reasonable hour. I have a good boss and I can walk to work. The broadband connection is fast, and I've been here long enough to know what I'm doing. Plus, there is occasional downtime. And a health care plan. And occasional French conversation in the lunchroom. :-)

2. I am grateful for my wonderful wife, who is funny, smart, sweet and caring. I'm grateful that we've been together for 6+ years, and that we'll be together for many more. I'm grateful that she is good at caring for our house plants and animals because otherwise they would probably die. And I'm grateful for the million ways she brings joy and fun into my life.

3. I am grateful to live in the United States, where I can rattle on about the idiocy of the President without fear of state reprisal. Also, I am grateful for the material comforts of living here, even if we get a little carried away with things sometimes. I'm grateful to all the people in government and private society who work to keep me safe, comfortable, entertained, and well-fed.

4. I am grateful for the churches and the christians who have nurtured my faith and guided me on my journey. I am grateful for God's work in my life--the sense of purpose and direction I derive from it, and the inclusive welcome I receive in the UCC (and, more recently the local MCC church, too). Even though I've had struggles, I'm glad to be a part of the larger faith-project and to count as brothers and sisters all Christians, even the crazy ones. Because, for the most part they mean well.

5. I'm grateful for all of you who are reading this. (Especially the ones who make comments!) I enjoy the chance to write out my thoughts and think things through, and it's very, very good to have a site like this. It brings out my inner nerd. :-)

6. Which also leads me to be thankful for all my friends and relations, whether you're nearby or distant. Or whether you are reading this or not. It's hard to be specifically grateful for every positive relationship I have, but our relationships shape us, and I feel grateful for who I've become thanks to you.

Other recent events for which I am grateful:

Putting together 25 health kits last night with the help of friends and new acquaintances from Meetin.

That extra hour of sleep I got by bribing the cat with an early breakfast

My cool UCC "God is Still Speaking" mug, which is this beautiful red color. Also, "The Green World," CD by Dar Williams, recently recommended by a friend.

A good meeting Tuesday night with some folks at the church where I'm helping with the 1st Saturday service. We talked about possibly expanding the ministry and it was an exciting conversation.

My fabulous cat, Tuesday, who loves to be around people and can tell when I want her to get out of the walk-in closet.

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Well, with all that it mind, it shouldn't be too hard to pray for:

--Hurricane recoveries!
--Pakistan earthquake and its survivors
--Heather doing stories in NH while it's still flooding
--Voting in Iraq Saturday

These things are big, but maybe not insurmountable after all

Blessings to all,

Amy