|
||||
MY BLESSINGS
I am almost 43 and at my last physical the nurse said I was in great shape, looked much younger, had very low cholesterol and am in solid health (despite a few nagging aches and pains) My knees have even stopped aching enough that I am considering playing basketball again !! My blood pressure has dropped 20 points and continues to stay lower and in a much healthier range then a few years ago
I am not bald. that is a great blessing
I have great friends who have proven themselves again this year, as they have been sturdy and reliable. Blain and Brad and Bobbie... thank you very much for being compasses and lighthouses as I weather the storm. But this year the list is much longer, I have to Add Ronda, Leslie & Lori, for your kindness and friendship. Steve C for reminding me I wrote this letter a year ago and still feel this way. Robert @ work... if it wasn't for you I'd still be getting up at 3:00AM. Rick in Utah, thanks for Death Magnetic and 20 years of being my last resort ! and of course ANN, I've said it before and will say it again; most definitely seed that fell on good ground...except I am the seed, you are the ground that I fell on, because you cause me to grow.. thank you a hundred times over!)
I learned at a young age that there are things in this world that would impair my heath, reason and ability to function in society, and have been successful in avoiding them for 22 years next Tuesday night. Realizing this and being able to follow through with it has been a true blessing for me.
I have great parents who love and support me, were an awesome example for me, taught me how to deal with problems and rely on the Lord when things get difficult. As they age the continue to be vigorous and active in church and in life, and providing a quality exampleof aging gracefully and honorably. Because of them I have never had to deal with issues such as abuse, neglect, dysfunction or any of the other emotional ailments that plague so many. I can honestly say, I have GOODLY PARENTS. I have the coolest brother and best sisters in the whole world.
I have the necessities of life, food to eat, a nice place to live, a decent car (well, less decent this year) a consistent income, and a few luxuries. I want for little.
I can play guitar. This has been a constant source of happiness, peace, solace, friendship and catharsis during my life. I am grateful for music of all types and parents who actively made it a part of my childhood, even when at times they didn't want to.
I have great kids. they are smart, talented, sucessful and able to keep themsleves clean from the temptations of the world. Kirsten , Halie and Cole. They are so strong and resilient, smart, artistic, creative and effervescent.. When they are here my steps are quicker and my heart is lighter. kirsten has started college this year, graduating a year early to pursue her art, It is wondrous to watch her develop. Halie started High school and was the first to get her patriarchal blessing, both ARE beautiful. Cole will be 12, receive the priesthood and is becoming the astute young man I always hoped he would be...he has fought hard to overcome some of his early challenges and is demonstrating his inner strength
Kenny is amazing. I have never known a 4 year old so full of life, vibrant and caring... and funny. There is not a day he is with me that I am not astounded by his spirit, character and absolute love of life. He brightens my life and gives me hope when I sometimes lose my own.
Jesus loves me. I know, it sounds so cliche cause so many people say it ..it almost means nothing anymore. But I am telling you, I know he does. I feel it every morning when I open up my heart to him and tell him I need his help to get through the day.
and he always gives it to me.
and I feel it every Christmas, but especially this one. Whether holding a candle singing SILENT NIGHT, listening to carols in the car, or truck at work ... I know he lives and loves me personally, and is aware of my struggles and my victories.
for this and so much more that I could continue to write. I am truly blessed.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL.... and may God bless us, everyone.