I'm grateful when I laugh. A laugh means that I still can see the joy, humor, and silliness in life. That I have hope.
I'm grateful when I say "I love you." The ability to say those three words tells me that I still trust in human relationships.
I'm grateful when I say "I believe you." It means I believe that there is still truth in this world and people who tell me the truth.
I'm grateful when I can point at Nature and say "That's beautiful!" Only a God Who is beautiful could have created such a beautiful universe. I can't wait to see God's beautiful Face.
I'm grateful when I hug people and they hug me back so tightly that I know they would mourn if I left this world - which means I've done some good here.
I'm grateful when I'm sobbing and wiping my eyes over someone's misfortune. I haven't become cynical or uncaring to protect myself and lost my soul as a consequence.
I'm grateful every day for the people who are in my life and the people who were in my life and the people who will be in my life. All impact my life for a reason - to bring love, to challenge me, or to teach me a lesson.
My life has been rich and full of people, places, and events both wonderful and sorrowful. I have experienced the full spectrum of human experiences and emotions. I don't know what lies ahead. But all that has happened to me so far has made me stronger and wiser, more capable of compassion and love. There has been beauty wrapped in every sunrise and sunset. I thank God for the gift of a beautiful life. I hope and pray that you do too.
"I will praise You Lord with all my heart." (Psalm 9:1)