Simple Things

Around the holidays I always become deep in thought about my life. I think this is pretty normal, as many people think about their lives around important days of the year; many of these days being Thanksgiving, birthdays, Christmas, or New Years. Well, as much as I love having those moments where I decipher the things I am proud of or hope to work on in my life, sometimes it’s important to focus on the day at hand. What can you do with what this day has to offer? How can you make it memorable or how can you bless someone else in it?

I wonder what the less fortunate of the world would take time to think about on Thanksgiving. Is the homeless man on the street consumed with thoughts about regrets in his life or with the kindness someone offered him by giving him something to eat that morning? Is the orphan girl consumed with thoughts of the injustice of her situation or the compassion that her foster parents show to her each night when they tuck her into bed? Do the children without shoes, shelter, or clean water in the rural regions of India take time to dwell on what God has not given them, or do they smile at the hugs that neighbors or missionaries give them each day?

It may be a mix, I admit, of thoughts that vary according to the day’s events for anyone on this Earth. But I think sometimes there is a special kind of hope that comes from appreciating the small things. There is a special kind of gratitude and significance that forms when you just focus on the moment in front of you.

Although it is great to take the time to ponder your life, fight against whatever injustice you cannot ignore, and make changes towards a brighter future; be careful not to miss the simple things this holiday season. Be sure not to overlook the twinkling of the Christmas tree, the smile on a child’s face, or the fun of going back for second helpings for turkey!

God gave us the simple things to be enjoyed. Make sure you take part.