I go to bed like everyone, wake up
Like many, run off complaining;
The weather, life, always something
I forget that some who went to bed
Like me, were carried out dead
Or ailing, for no fault of theirs.

I go to work and return everyday
Grouchy for the traffic that’s added
To my spilling plate of hard work
I forget some who left home healthy
Didn’t make it back, for no fault of theirs.

I get my portion of food and drinks
A home, a bed, and clothes that fit
Then murmur how tough my life’s been
I forget that out there, many are homeless
Thirsty and starving, for no fault of theirs.

Life springs its challenges here and there
Sometimes I win, sometimes I lose
Life is a gift we never can earn, everyday
A miracle to be enjoyed, knowing out there
Are many who can’t, for no fault of theirs.

In this day and age that a lot of us feel entitled to all the good things of life, it is so easy to misplace privileges as rights and take opportunities for granted, only to turn around and blame some else for our losses and errors (it can’t be our fault, right?) That failure to take ownership, takes from us the power (but not the responsibility) to do something for the change that is so vital for our growth and progression. In our quest for what we consider extraordinary, we treat what we are given as nothing and miss out on the miracles of living.

So fixated on what we want to be, to do and get, we forget that every day we wake up is a miracle some others are not getting, and not because of anything in particular they did or didn’t do. Every day we are able to breathe and get out of bed is a gift because there are those who despite their desires to go places cannot breathe or take a step, unaided. Every day we have a roof to return to, clothes and food, and complain of it not being enough, we fail to realize that there are many out there who have no place to call home, and not sure of where the next meal or change of clothing will come from.

We grumble about our jobs whereas many would give anything to get one. We count our lives hard while someone, somewhere is just praying to survive. Crowded by all that we seek and that seeks our attention, we feel pressured which deteriorate into discouragement and resentment, both of which fuel ingratitude. We look across and count our neighbors better off because we see the flowering roses in their lives but not the thorns they must endure. We judge from a distance, jump to conclusions and grow irritable, easily offended and over-reactive, complicating life that should be rather simple and enjoyable. Instead of counting our blessings, we are singing misfortune as if we are the only ones with problems.

Remember: life may appear perfect for others but nobody’s life is. There are many out there who don’t and may never have what you have and are yet thankful and joyful. Many out there would give anything to be where you are. And there are so many out there who have been dealt worse than you are currently facing. Stop and reflect how far you’ve come and therein find encouragement for wearying soul. Seeking to see God’s faithfulness in our past assures our hearts that no matter what tomorrow brings, He who saw us through yesterday is with us today and is able to see us through whatever tomorrow brings. It makes us grateful for what we have and for where we are. Don’t forget, your case is not the worst. In fact, you are a miracle and every day you wake up is a miracle some do not receive, for no fault of theirs.

Blessings,
Glory!