Were someone to analyze my posts from the time I began my blog, July 2003 until now, they would notice a recurring theme - gratitude. I have written about it many times, and when I ponder what to write, it keeps popping up.
I do not think, "Gee, I think I will write about gratitude again." Instead, some event of the day comes to mind, then I leap right to that feeling, state-of-mind, condition, attitude, or whatever you want to call it. Today is no exception. One of my encounters steered me to the "G" word and I found myself thanking God for something new.
If you read my posts, you know that I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work at a mental health clinic and I do intake assessments. I like the job for many reasons, but perhaps one of those high on the list of reasons is it keeps me humble. Every day I come face to face with people who are struggling and suffering. Though some suffer with self-inflicted problems, more often than not, a perfect storm of circumstances has struck a hard knock down blow.
The humility I mentioned arises from the realization that, "But for the grace of God, go I." I have struggled at times in life. I have had to overcome obstacles, but I am fortunate to have many things others do not. I have health, friends, family, and enough money to let me sleep at night. I am thankful everyday for it, but I know my time will come. Health problems, death, and loss come to us all.
Today, I went up front to meet the person I was to assess. The individual was about my age, which always triggers a comparison. The person had difficulty walking because of neurological difficulties. They could only walk with assistance. I could make a long list of what that person did not have, what that person could not do, and the problems that person has had. I will, however, not tempt the HIPPA police.
The point is, I reacted with thanks and appreciation to God. That then motivates me to help, to do what I can to ease suffering or connect with a resource to improve a life. It is not a sense of pity, but a desire to help fueled by an awareness of what I have and what I do not have to deal with.
Lord, the world is full of people who suffer. Who, no fault of their own, have much less than do I. I did not do anything to deserve it. I know that someday, suffering will visit me. I know you will carry me through it and I thank you in advance for that deliverance. In the meantime, I hope I will make a positive difference in the lives of those I try to help - In appreciation and gratitude I offer this prayer. -Amen.
Until the next time
John Strain