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When you consider all the things we are blessed
with, things we should be thankful for, a bed seems a very trivial part
of it. However, think about it, if you don't get a good nights sleep,
the following day is a bummer. You are grouchy, tired, and irritable.
A few years ago my husband and I made a two week
driving vacation trip. Our first night home, when I snuggled down in my
own bed, I said thanks to God for this wonderful bed. After two weeks of
sleeping in different beds almost every night, waking up in different
motels and wondering where you are, I was so grateful to be back where I
belonged. I felt secure, happy to be in my own bed.
One thought ignited another. I thought of all the
poor and homeless people who were sleeping in an alley, on a park
bench, under a bridge or on a narrow cot in a flop house. Many probably
were not sleeping, but scrounging in dumpsters and trash cans for food,
under the cover of darkness. Then my thoughts turned to the hungry of
the world, the used, abused and ill treated people, orphans and unwanted
children. Where were they sleeping? I suddenly felt very guilty having
such a good, clean, and comfortable bed.
I visualized all the little things that come
together to make the pattern of our daily living.
Enough food to eat, clean water to drink, freedom
to move about as we please, a car to drive, and money for gas. The
knowledge you have a warm coat in the closet when freezing weather is
predicted. All small things, but important to each individual for
comfort.
My wonderful bed became very important to me and
something to give thanks for, along with the air conditioning which was
presently cooling me, the healthy dog at my side, and the good dinner I
had earlier.
These are some things most of us take for granted.
Provided to us on a daily basis—our family, friends, co-workers, service
people are all expected to be there when we need or want them.
It won't always be true. Some will move out of our
lives. Others will pass from this world. Children will grow up and move
away. Give thanks that you have them now.
I am exceedingly glad I was born in America, the
greatest country on earth.
I am thankful I was born into a family of honest
and God loving people.
I am thankful God gave me the ability to work and
provide my family and myself with things of life that we enjoy.
I am thankful I have enjoyed good health most of
the time.
There will never be another day of your life that
is exactly like the day you have at this moment. Rejoice in what has
been given to you. Give thanks to God for your many blessings and don't
forget the little things, like a good bed.
(c) Oct 2006 Clara Westerfer |
