Perspective

Something miraculous happened today. I rear ended someone just before arriving at work. Estimates for repairs will put a pretty good dent in my savings, and I felt about a hundred times worse because it was my mom's car. But I felt blessed. No one was hurt. I learned a really valuable lesson about paying more attention when I'm driving and not trying to multitask. I could have learned that lesson in a much worse situation. My parents were completely understanding and more concerned for my well being than about the car. They were sympathetic about the repair costs and relieved the stress of worrying about how this would negatively affect them after their generosity in letting me borrow their car.

About 24 hours previous to the accident I sliced my hand open while cutting frozen cheese... and haven't had much use in my left hand since then. It's kind of amazing how it really isn't the circumstances of our lives that create hope and happiness. Ok, circumstances can help. But ultimately it's the choices we make, where our heart is, and where our priorities are.

Today I am grateful first for the gospel of Jesus Christ, which allows me to even have the perspective and knowledge that I do. While I fall so short of being the disciple I know I can be, I know He accepts me and encourages me where I am. I know I can still do good and help others where I am. I don't have to wait until I am better, more devoted, more faithful, more perfect... to be loved or to be His instrument.

I am grateful for the love I feel in my life from my family and from friends and from good people who love and help expecting nothing in return.

I am grateful for my students, who are amazing little spirits and individuals.

I am grateful for hope. I have felt it abundantly lately. Accompanied by trust. I have seen glimpses of the incredible blessings yet to come. I have been reminded of the incredible blessings I have received and presently experience.

I am grateful for nature and the awe that I feel when I am in it. I went camping last weekend with some good friends (pictures to come) then ran... ok jogged and half walked... the most intense half marathon trail run I have ever done. It took me almost twice as long as a normal half. But it was beautiful and I was grateful for a body that could even get through that.

Life is good. Everything will work out. I have a lot of improving to do. But I can do it. That's what this life is about.