Dear God,
Today is my birthday and I thank you for my life here on Earth. My friends and family have asked me repeatly what I wanted for my birthday this year. I have been pondering what to ask for this year. I have googled many items, flipped through all the catalogs sent to the house, and browsed all the colorful ads in the newspaper. So many awesome things available, and yet I need nothing.
It dawned on me as I was out for my morning run. I have two strong legs, two good ears to hear the air fill my smoke-free lungs, two eyes to see the beauty of nature, and the ability to feel the cold on my cheeks. I am able to breathe in the scent of the smoke of the fireplaces.
I have people in my life who love me. Most of these folks love me “as is” and readily forgive my weaknesses, faults, and mistakes. These are the ones who reach out to me when I start to retreat to that dark place I sometimes wander. I have people who smile and wave when they see me out for my morning run; stop to chat with me in the park. There are kind faces in public places; they smile at me and say hello. I have a multitude of online friends that stop by and say hello; total strangers to me but yet not. I have folks I can turn to for advice, support, a shoulder, listening ear, or as a sounding board that I appreciate dearly!
I have two wonderful children that I love to death; and still appreciate my advise and guidance; most of the time. I have beautiful grandchildren that remind me of the joys of childhood! I have a playful dog & two fat cats that shower me with attention and affection that I love to spoil. I am blessed with visits from red-tail hawks to remind me my departed loved ones are still near; I do so enjoy watching those hawks take flight.
I have all this, while others have so little; the poor children who are without food, clothing, and love. Those who go hungry, all the lonely and sad people in the world, and let’s not forget, those who serve our country in foreign soil unable to be with loved ones on their special day.
Although this year has been, and continues to be challenging, on the material level I need nothing! For all my needs have been fulfilled.
Today I discovered that for myself, I have nothing tangible to ask for this year.
So instead, God, can you be so kind as to sprinkle the lives of my children with blessings. Protect and guide them on the path you have designed for them. Let all of us enjoy good health, strength to overcome obstacles put in our paths, friends and family to love, the door of hate be closed and the door of love opened, plenty of food, warmth, and shelter. And especially bless those service members who are protecting the freedoms of others; keep them all safe, let them feel your precious love, warmth, and blessings.
Thank you...Amen
