Grateful

A few days ago a friend forwarded an email from an American currently living in Egypt. Maybe it was real-maybe not, I didn’t check because the words struck a chord in my heart.
In a very straight forward fashion the writer gave an insider’s view of life in Egypt now and the near future; the hardships, precautions, obstacles to everyday life, of being safe, and hopeful. I sensed her courage, her determination to survive.
I take for granted things like fresh water (not to mention enough for a hot shower). I turn on the tap and water flows from it.
I take for granted fresh food and milk for my grandchildren. Those are a short trip to the market not a perilous journey of many hours that will probably prove fruitless.
I worry about my children being late to work and driving fast to make up the time, not being accosted on the way or having to work without pay for days on end because others can’t make it into work.
My mothers’ heart knows this woman’s fears, her pain. Those feelings are universal to women everywhere. We make a home where our families are safe and comfortable.
Her last paragraphs remind me how lucky I am to live here, in the U.S.A., in a place call Texas. It started me thinking about my life and the liberties we enjoy.
I am grateful to live in a country where I’m free to express my thoughts and live my life as I choose. Sunday I got to spend time with family; happy children ran enthusiastically around parents, aunts and uncles. Not once in the eight or nine hours we were together did any of us feel threatened.
I am grateful for this crazy life of mine; for family and friends who love and encourage me, for the simple pleasures that enhance and enrich my life.
Today as I go through my day I’m going to make a conscious effort to count my blessings and be grateful for everyone of them.
Want to join me? Please, leave a comment; I am grateful for…
Ella