To be Great is to be Grateful

When you look around you, do you take what you have for granted? The natural reaction is probably no. I want you to really think about it. Do you like the car you drive? Are you happy with your body weight? Did you go to work today? These may seem like simple questions to answer, but they test motives and what we value.

This morning, I went to visit my mom for a little bit. Our conversation started as it always does. Questions pertaining to Toastmasters, preparing for teaching in the fall, and about my every day life emerged. Out of no where, she disclosed a shocking detail to me. A couple my mom's family have known for years lost everything in a house fire. Imagine working all of your life for the things you've wanted and needed. One day, it's all gone. Homeowners insurance can cover partial damage, but it cannot replace memories, photographs, personal items close to your heart, and pets. 

After she disclosed this to me, it made me realize how grateful I am for everything I have in my life. I will admit that I sometimes look at life from a negative angle. For example, I am waiting for the school year to begin. Once it begins, I will bring in an income again. At the moment, I impatiently wait for the start of the new year. However, I know that a job does await me. I have to practice patience. 

At this moment, I think about the moment my mom and I were in the same room together. That's a precious moment. I will never get that moment back. I could lose her at any time. I don't want to think about that right now. At some point, it will be a reality.

What I am saying is that it is important to be grateful for everything you have. It may seem like a tiny sprinkle on top of a giant cake, but that tiny sprinkle has meaning. Enjoy it. In fact, savor it. Time will only tell when that moment will be over.