"Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship."

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Gratitude...

I've been feeling super strong about writing this post today so here it is. For those of you who are LDS, this post relates to the lesson given in Relief Society/Elders Quorum, so you may be able to relate.

Today our President gave the lesson and begun with "I've been praying for each of you to have experiences with gratitude this week...", as she spoke this with tears in her eyes I thought...Wow... the amazing experiences I've had this week have definitely taught me about this great blessing. Now reflecting upon the lessons of gratitude that stick out immediately in my mind about this week brings tears to my eyes and continue to when I think more about them.

There are two specifically.

Last week I posted about Joshua's grandma and her birthday which was such a fun memory to create. This week on Tuesday, Joshua's other Grandma on his Dad's side unexpectedly passed away. It has been a sweet experience comforting and being with my husband and his family this past weekend for funeral services. I was continually reminded how blessed I am for the people around me including family, grandmothers etc. And also reminded about how life can change so quickly! I am so grateful for my Grandma Ann and the wonderful relationship I have with her. The funeral made me miss my Grandpa Cal as well and made me think about my current relationships and if I am really treating people the best I know how and cherishing those I love.

My other experience happened this same weekend as well. Recently I have seemed to be somewhat...sad/moody due to birth control probably!, but also just getting used to changes in my life. Good changes, but different might I add! As I was having a particularly hard time the other night I called a dear friend. As I sat there crying she just listened... for I don't know how long. A little while later after we had hung up, she called and asked where I was and said she was ten minutes away and she's coming to me. She drove a 20-30 minute drive for me. As I hugged her, I felt so much love and care! I can't even begin to express my deep gratitude for true friends and good people in the world...it brings me to my most humble self.

My President asked us to describe what gratitude felt like. The only thing I could think was humility and peace. When people serve me or when experiences happen which bring us to our most thankful and grateful state, it is there where we find gratitude. Gratitude is simply a tender mercy from above. It leaves my heart feeling full, my eyes swelling, and my mind left trying to comprehend the love that others have that inspire gratitude.

I am so grateful for all I have. I have so much and have been so blessed. I am so grateful for all of you dear, angel friends who have sacrificed for me with your time, in conversation or in action. You have truly humbled me and I hope you know how much you are loved and appreciated. I am so grateful to God for all, and I am so grateful for my husband teaching me what real love is.


2 comments:

  1. What a beautifully written expression of you heart, Jess. I loved this post. It articulated much of what I feel, as well. You are surely something I am grateful for, pet. We love you!

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