As I am sitting in bed resting this Christmas, I am reflecting on how blessed I am. I have so much in my life, I really have very little to complain about. Sure, I would like this cold I have to go away. Having a cold at anytime is not ideal. Sure, I would like my parents to understand my faith. Sure, I wish I were surrounded by family and friends on Christmas morning to celebrate the holiday. But I have people in my life who love me. I can live comfortably. There is not a whole lot I lack in my life. It is so easy to always want more. All the time. It is so easy to complain about what is wrong, or what I want more, and, in the process, forgetting that I have so much. This is my life and it’s a pretty good one.
I attended a candlelight service last night in midtown. It was and always is a beautiful service. Afterward, I had a serendipitous evening. I met a good friend and we went to dinner. Nothing fancy, although Houston’s is a bit above average in the restaurant category and is consistently one of my favorites. I say the evening was serendipitous as I was expecting to spend the evening alone. I almost think it is better to tame expectations to experience those situations that just allow one to feel blessed.
So, as I lie here in bed, I smile knowing I am traveling in a few days with some good friends and acquaintances. I smile knowing I will be sharing Christmas dinner with strangers and a good friend. And I smile knowing the end of 2008 brought me back to my faith that I had lost for so long.
Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas, a very Happy Hanukah, and a Happy New Year with abundant health and happiness in 2009!
