Ok, so I am new to this blogging thing but I thought I would give it a shot.....I guess you can either agree or disagree with me but regardless, it's all about respect for another's view, right? So here it goes.....
So far this holiday season many feel they have little to be thankful for. The economy is in a rut, the government is in transition and some are in danger of losing the one thing they thought they could count on, their home. We are afraid of the new year and have elected for change in hopes of a better tomorrow. Have we forgotten what we DO have? It isn't all gloom and doom, here a few things to ponder....
We live in a country that doesn't have tanks patrolling the streets and we can cross state lines without fear of never being able to return home. Thanks to the men and women who have served and are serving to preserve that freedom.
We had the right to choose a new president without fear of losing our lives or harm to our families. Again thanks to the service men and women. However, the only way these changes will come is if we band together and are willing for the change he is proposing in our own lives. The small steps are those we as Americans are willing to make to better us as a country. The politicians can only do so much if we are not willing to change. Simple example....you petition a stop sign to be put at a corner in your neighborhood, the local government puts it there.....now even though it is there, no one acknowledges it. What good is it if we are not willing for it?
Consider your blessings today, maybe you have to downsize or you can't afford Christmas or your holiday of worship this year, consider a gift of your time to someone you care about. Too many times we seem to put a price tag on a relationship, when we have something way more valuable everyday. Give a moment of yourself to someone, it truly is appreciated.
If you do decide to buy something for someone, consider shopping locally at an independant business. The fact is small independant businesses do not get bailouts nor do the owners get unemployment benefits. If they close, they are done and the community suffers. To live in a community that has independant businesses means people are willing to invest in a community. They are not independantly wealthy, but want to better the community by adding to it in some way. When you considered living in your community what were some of the things that attracted you to it? My bet would be all of the little things that add character, charm and convienience. Those are your small businesses.
Most of all be thankful for your health your familiy's health and the love you share. If your roof leaks, be happy it is keeping you from the storm. If your blankets have holes, be glad they still offer warmth. If all you have to eat is macaroni and cheese or pb&j, be glad because you have more than many in this world. It is something in your belly to give you strength until tomorrow. Be thankful for who is watching down over us to give us faith on for a new day, no matter who he is to you.
Cherish what you have, no matter how small, something is more than nothing, and whatever you do have, consider sharing it with others.
Have a great holiday everyone!
Renee