All that I am thankful for

There are so many others in this world that don’t even have a fraction of what we have. Imagine what life is like for others who are not as lucky.

Women who have never known tender words or a loving caress from their lover, only angry words and fists.

Little boys who are learning how to use weapons to kill rather than learning the power of a pencil.

Little girls who are maimed in the most horrific of ways and who will never be given the opportunity to learn to read or write. Never learn their importance and value.

Children who go hungry, who have never had a parent tell them to eat everything on their plate before getting dessert because there is simply nothing…NOTHING to eat. They only live to die.

Mothers who have to watch their children suffer every day. Watch them slowly starve to death with swollen bellies and the saddest eyes that silently beg for mercy.

Children and families who are living in the midst of war. One that is not theirs nor one they want. Hearing blasts of guns, bombs and cries of torture and can only be thankful it is not them but wonder every day when it will be.

Children who live through a type of hell every day with unspeakable abuse and terror. Imagine never having a mom or dad to ‘kiss it all better’ but are the very ones who inflict the wounds.

In another world this could have been me, my children or someone I love.

I am indeed thankful for all I have. Thankful for my life and all that is in it.

My health.
Food on my table.
A roof over my head.
A job that gives me the ability to provide for my family and to help the less fortunate. I pray it reaches them and eases some suffering.

But most of all I am thankful for the all the love I have in my life. There is so much of it, more than I deserve.

My handsome and adoring husband. Life would be very boring without him around.

My beautiful and spirited little girl who brings an indescribable amount of joy to our lives. She’s smart and sweet and gives the best hugs.

My beautiful little boy who brightens every day with his smile and sense of humour. He is bright and kind and loving.

A home filled with love and so much laughter. More laughter than tears (Unless it’s tears caused by laughter and there is nothing sweeter).

My parents, in-laws and a family who love us unconditionally. They are our biggest supporters and mentors.

Let us rise up and be thankful,
for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little,
and if we didn't learn a little,
at least we didn't get sick,
and if we got sick, at least we didn't die;
so, let us all be thankful.
- The Buddha