Gratitude Soapbox time...

Lately the subject of gratitude has been on my mind alot. I know it's a little late after Thanksgiving to be talking about gratitude, but it's something we all should express all the time.

I was talking to a woman today who has had such a hard life the last 30 years, it made all my problems look like nothing. We talked for about an hour and a half about her life and how she's learned to deal with all her trials. She's about 50 years old, hardly has any family, and has had to struggle with an autoimmune disease most of her life which has taken a huge toll on her physically and probably emotionally. Most of her family is dead, 6 of which committed suicide. All that's left is her one son and his only daughter, and maybe a few neices and nephews. But for the most part she doesn't ever see her family, or her only grandaughter. Her ex husband left her after about 10 years of marriage, and now has a boyfriend and her dog Gracie to keep her company. A couple years ago her home burned down with everything she owned inside. Her disease is a constant hassle and requires constant upkeep. It's gotten to the point where it has deteriorated her joints so badly that one day her knee literally fell apart when she stood up. Even though she has had to endure through so many afflictions in her lifetime, has had to deal with so many unfortunate events, all without family, I have never seen her without a smile on her face. She is always so cheerful and always so concerned about how my life is and how I'm doing. She always puts a smile on my face and makes me laugh everyday.

The reason I bring her up is because she is one of those people who makes me realize how blessed and spoiled I am. I don't have nearly the problems this woman has, and yet I still find reasons to complain. I think I whine about having to drive all the way to work everyday...when I should be grateful for having a job when others don't. I whine about how cold it is outside and how I am always cold, when I should be grateful for the roof I have over my head and that I have a warm coat to keep me warm. I might whine about all the dishes I have to do tonight, but I am grateful that we have plenty to eat and lots of food in our cupboards. I have a strong body, a strong mind, a strong husband, and a strong testimony of the gospel. I have been incredibly blessed and I am so grateful for everything I have. I love my husband so much and I am so grateful for all the things he does for me everyday. He works so hard to make sure I am taken care of and provided for. I am grateful for the priesthood he holds, and that I can have it in my home. I love my family so much and I don't know what life would be like without them! And that means all of you, mom, dad, aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, mother and father-in-laws. You inspire me everyday and teach me so much. I love my parents and the examples they are to me. I am grateful that they are as patient and as loving as they are towards me lol. They have had to put up with me for about 24 years now after all. I love the friends that I have so much. I wish I could see you all more often... but we'll always share the wonderful memories we've had together. I miss you!

I am also grateful for the gospel and the blessings it brings. I am thankful for the Savior and the sacrifice he made for me. I am grateful for the atonement and the opportunity I have to return to Heavenly Father. I am grateful for His love and tender mercies. I am grateful for the leaders of the church and local leaders and all their efforts, love, and guidance. I am thankful for the scriptures. I probably don't read them as much as I should, but I am grateful that I do have them when I do decide to be better... lol.

Anyway, that's my little "Gratitude Soapbox" for ya. Love you all, and happy holidays!