The events of the last few weeks have really weighed heavy on my heart. I have listened to news reports of flooding and devastation in Houston- my home. I have prayed frantically for the safety of my own family there and cried long distance with strangers who have lost homes and even loved ones. In the last couple of days, my heart found a new low when our president moved to repeal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Seriously? It was like a slow motion flood happening all over the United States, threatening to wipe out dreams, freedom, compassion, and life as we all know it!
As these events unfolded, I began to hear from my family. While some suffered minimal property damage in the flood, and my brother’s home was underwater, they all had one message: “Thank God, it could be worse!” They survived! When various DACA dreamers began to speak out, their sentiment was one of gratitude for their accomplishments and contributions to this world! They shared rich heritages- not rich in money, but rich in hope and determination!
Yesterday, I sat with a family grieving the loss of their mother; visited a woman awaiting amputation of her leg; ate with young woman defiantly living with advanced metastatic breast cancer. The latter greeted me with a warm smile and personified sunshine. Wow!
I’m sure you’ve heard it said, “EVERYONE is going through something” How true! Some of our trials are openly viewed like current events while others’ pain is housed deep within the creases of their hearts- only seen by a select few. Some of us are wearing a smile, but wondering if anyone knows the despair we feel.
In any case, the last few weeks have really sharpened my perspective. When I think about the battles I am fighting. and there are many, I have to remind myself IT COULD BE WORSE. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not minimizing my own loss or tears. THEY ARE BIG- especially TO ME! It is extremely important to face your problems and deal with them. I have found that for me, burying my problems only digs a grave for my peace of mind. It not only delays my healing but it isolates me and leaves me to cope alone. So again, I’m not making light of what I’ve been through. I’m simply choosing to deal with my situations with gratitude rather than pity.
As I sit comfortably in my living room, I dare not focus on my problems without remembering my brother. As I confidently blog about hopes and dreams, I dare not complain about my future while my friends wonder if they will lose theirs. How can I watch live streaming of my family out helping others, hear testimonies of triumph in church, or just sit across the table, and not feel gratitude?
I can’t. Gratitude has a face!
Strengthen. Heal. Empower.
If you would like to help
Great word Dr.