DO YOU TAKE THINGS FOR GRANTED? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 44

Many people have grown up being very blessed in terms of how they live, what they have, and having a support system.  Too often those blessings are taken for granted rather than being appreciated.  As we mature we realize that at least 2/3 of the world's population if not more are much less fortunate.  It is when we become cognizant of the needs of others like clean drinking water, food to feed their children, medicine to take when they are sick, and proper shelter that we begin to be grateful for what we have and have been given.  It is true that there are some young children who are already grateful and doing amazing things to raise money to help those in need, but sadly we live in an era when many seem to be more concerned with themselves than with anyone else.

I remember someone once describing their children as "take me, buy me, give me, get me" kids.  It seems as if perhaps too many have grown up to be the "take me, buy me, give me, get me" adults.  If you take things for granted and are more interested in what your next purchase will be or the next gift you will receive, it is time to reflect on all that you already have and give thanks to the provider.

Today's message is:

GIVE THANKS

Memorial Day Means More Than A Holiday Party

As the long weekend begins many have plans for parties, BBQ's, heading to the beaches, attending parades, catching up on household chores, or even working.  At some point during this weekend I hope all of us will pause and remember what Memorial Day means.  Teach our children and grandchildren what it means.  Let us remember that it is not just a day off from school or work.  It is a day to pay our respects to all of the military people who paid the supreme price to serve our country and protect our freedoms.  It is a day to pay tribute and give thanks for all of them and for all of their families and friends who lost their loved ones.  It is a day to give thanks for all of the men and women currently serving in our armed forces, facing danger and death, giving up precious time with their spouses, children, parents, siblings and friends.  We must also remember to ask blessings for those spouses, children, parents, siblings and friends who struggle to make ends meet based on low pay for high risk duty, who have babies alone, who raise children alone, and who relocate frequently, and who are unappreciated or acknowledged.  Last but certainly not least, let us give thanks for all of the men and women who are suffering from life-threatening and life-changing injuries.  Let us offer prayers for their healing and relief from their pain, for renewal of their spirits and hopes for the future, and for the never-ending love and support of those spouses and children whose lives are also forever changed.  May they all have faith, hope, love, courage and strength to keep on going and to never give up no matter what.