My heart is full of gratitude.
Saturday night, my husband wanted a bonfire. My siblings are always invited, as they live nearby. That in itself is a gratitude – wonderful to be part of a close and loving family. But I was tired from the day’s activity, and really wanted just to rest. A turkey dinner, even if it was only for the two of us, still includes the cleanup and broth making afterward. I was very grateful that two of cups of tea perked me up for the evening.
My brother-in-law arrived first. My sister stayed home with a sore back. I was grateful to hear she was improving, but the ensuing conversation was about ineffective pain meds, how narcotics make my brother-in-law sick, and how hospitals insist on prescribing anyway. My husband joined in with his own stories of how little it takes to send a back into spasm. And I was filled with gratitude that I have never suffered with that!
Then my brother and his wife pulled into the yard. They’d been working at the Cottage. This was a place they had “renovated” for the previous owner after the roof collapsed and the raccoons, porcupines and squirrels moved in. The owner had insisted that it be repaired, but then let it sit empty for years, promising to contact my brother if it ever went up for sale. I’m grateful that my brother is able to afford such things when the opportunity arises. Replacing the rotten deck is the next task. By comparison, our winter trip south looks cheap. And I am grateful.
I am grateful that my husband and I want so little, and that we agree so well on how to spend our money. Like everyone, we have our disagreements, but we aren’t at all interested in having a cottage. We have sufficient money for our needs, and for the future, and our home brings us contentment and joy. I am grateful.
I sat there listening to the crackling fire and to the voices of people I love, realizing I have no pain to speak of and enough financial security to be free from worry. Yes, we are getting older, and we wonder what things will be like here, and in the world, in another 100 years, but right now we are fine.
I woke the next morning, rested and ready for Sunday. My friend picked me up for church, and the World Communion Service was wonderful. I so enjoy my Sundays, and the love and appreciation that wrap me in gratitude week after week.
My heart is full.
