Forests of blessings despite the trees of adversity
When I go back and re-read some of my drivel posted over the last couple of years, I find that some of my words intended to be a bit sarcastic can come off sounding just plain negative. It is certainly not my intent. I guess sometimes my attempts to be “edgy” end up painting me as a pessimist – which is certainly not where I would plant myself on the continuum of attitudes.
So, as we wind down a whirlwind of a 2008, let me call-out some of the blessings and good things that I am excited about, and for which I am thankful (yes…intentionally posted AFTER Thanksgiving so I won’t be EXACTLY like everyone else):
- Family is cool – Growing up around drug-headed brothers with police records longer than my educational transcripts have taught me that having a family that is stable, puts up with me, and has fun together is not only irreplaceable – but priceless.
- Not normal is the new “normal” – Growing up, a label of “normal” was placed on all families except mine. As I have aged, I have realized that anyone who wears this moniker is simply lying. Everyone has something in the closet they are not proud of – or that they don’t want to advertise. I am thankful to have friends that actually care for me despite the warts all over my pre-married life.
- I love spending time with my wife and kids – right now, I’m sitting across the table from my daughter (who has no idea what I’m typing), and we’re just hanging out in a coffee shop (the only one that has Internet access) in Harrison, AR. Who knew that sharing a muffin top and a cinnamon roll with a 14-year old could be so fun?
- I love church – how’s that for a phrase that is not overused? I really do, though. I am thankful to be at a place where the old brotherhood hang-ups don’t keep us from actually ministering to community, for a place where there are open minds, and for a place where the spirit of Christ is actually allowed to impact people’s lives.
- The economy is tough, but we’re still driving two cars – I hope I will not be blinded to the fact that the reason life can go on, for the most part, like we have been used to is because of God’s rich blessings. Tough times are ahead, but I am thankful for every blessing.
- Need a release? shoot a terrorist – My vice is playing an occasional video game or two. If my mid-life crisis consists of virtually taking out a few terrorist cells via PS3 or XBOX 360, so be it! I’m thankful for such a release! (and, the occasional Guitar Hero tournament)
I would love to spend more time writing in the future, but my time tends to be ravaged by other things. I will still post as much as possible. Realizing this is only my second post this month is a bit of a disappointment to me…but hey, it’s a built-in goal for 2009!
This is my favorite time of year. May all readers be blessed during the holidays, and here’s to an exciting holiday season!
-MH
