Count Your Blessings

It would be really easy for me to post a whiny pity party for myself but I refuse to have that kind of blog so, instead I am going to talk about some things in my life that Heavenly Father has blessed me with.

1. The Gospel of Jesus Christ- The knowledge I have about my place in this big world as a daughter of God with a loving Heavenly Father and a Savior life would have little hope. When I feel lonely, discouraged, and overwhelmed I can find comfort in my Savior.  I know that he loves me and that he can take away my pain. "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28)  These past few days have made me really realize how grateful I am for that knowledge. I know that my prayers are heard.  I know that if I live righteously I can have the spirit with me to always guide and comfort me.  I wish I were able to put into words how grateful I am for this Gospel but I don't think it can be done in one post.

2. My Family- I cannot express how grateful I am for the wonderful people that have been placed in my life as my family.  They make me a better person everyday. They have taught me how to laugh and how to love.  I know without a doubt that they are always there for me even when I mess up.  They are my best friends and I am so grateful to know that I can be with them for eternity. I cannot properly put into words how much these people mean to me.

3. Money- This is funny because truthfully I don't have money.  I just found out today that I technically live in poverty.  Funny huh? Luckily my family helps me whenever possible. I never go hungry, I never have to sleep on the streets, and I never have to go without my needs.  I am getting an education at a great university which is something a lot of people can never even hope for because of financial restrictions.  As much as I complain about how poor I am because I can't buy the pink vans I want or because I can't eat out every night, I have to realize that I am far better off than most people in this world, and those little things really don't matter.

4. My Job- I have a great job! I get to work the exact hours I want/need every week.  I don't have to run around doing physical labor, instead I get to help people which is pretty wonderful.  Well, sometimes. :)

5. Health- This is something I have always been so grateful for.  My body is able to do so much, I can dance, walk, run, work, pretty much at anytime I need to. Dancing is one of my passions in life and I don't know what I could do if that outlet was not available to me.  I have even taken up running, crazy if you know me at all.  I actually kind of love it.  It blows my mind that our bodies are able to run for miles when they are in the proper shape.  I currently have maxed out at 3 miles but I plan to work towards more.  My ability to learn and grow is something else that I feel so grateful for.  Improvement is something I am able to always work towards because I do have a mind able to develop, that is so wonderful.

6. Music- Music has a way of changing my mood in an instant.  I love that power in music.  No matter what my mood there is music out there that can enhance, improve, or change it.  Currently I am listening to some good old country, it reminds me of growing up because my parents love listening to country.  I am so grateful that I have the talent to help "create" music.  I love singing, using my voice to help people understand human emotion.  I love the goose bumps that crawl up my arms when I hear a group execute a tight harmony.  I honestly can't think of any other art medium that creates an instant reaction in myself.

Well now I feel better! I would love to hear some of the things you are especially grateful for.  There is so many more things I could add to this list but I think I will wait until the next day I am feeling particularly blue.  This was kind of therapeutic. Until next time...:)