Reading a friend's blog (thanks, Faith!), I was reminded again of the importance of fostering an "attitude of gratitude" in my life and family. With that in mind, I thought I would list a dozen things I genuinely appreciate about living here. Like my 25 random things, they are in no particular order:
*The garbage collector clangs a bell so we know when he comes
*No junk mail!
*People clean the street in front of their businesses, sweeping up litter and throwing water to settle the dust
*Small friendly "tiendas" - local stores within walking distance, selling basic grocery items
*The scenic view - mountains, blue skies, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets
*Low cost of labor for affordable car repairs, household help, gardening, plumbing, electrical work, dental and medical treatments, etc.
*Mild weather year-round which means a simpler wardrobe
*Adobe house which helps regulate the indoor temperatures without A/C or heating
*Fewer activities, less running around, more family time
*Kids have friends within safe walking distance
*My supportive network of friends who meet for weekly prayer for our children
*Kids can learn a second language and acquire a heart for cross-cultural ministry
*Jim's office/ recording studio is right next door
********************
On a less Pollyanna-like afternoon, I might have twisted each of these blessings and portrayed them in a less than favorable light, complaining about the wild dogs that scatter the garbage in the night, about the smell of burning trash, about how people throw litter wherever they want, how the closest real grocery store is an hour away, and how there are no trees or lovely gardens in the otherwise spectacular view, how the repairmen often lack the needed parts, and how having fewer clothes they tend to wear out quicker from sun rot on the clothes line, and about having not enough fun things to do or places to go. I could even grumble that the weather is so nice I have absolutely no excuse not to get out and walk every afternoon!
However I can find no negative angle about living in an adobe house, about plenty of family time, and about having good friends close by. Pollyanna or no, life is good!
1 Thessalonians 5:18
"...give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
5 comments:
I needed that reminder today. Thanks.
Great reminder no matter where we live. That photo of the double rainbow is just amazing.
Ok I really miss the tienditas!!! I loved running over to them and getting stuff I didn't have on hand...so convenient!
I should have given credit to my daughter for the photography. That's Hannah's work, if I'm not mistaken.
Yeah and did you see my comment after yours on my blog? Hope I didn't give you the impression that I've 'got this thing down'. :) Work in progress, my friend. Work in progress...
Post a Comment