Thankful Thursday

In light of the recent storms that have swept across our country, today I am thankful for a house that is still standing, for electricity to keep things running, and most of all, for my family and friends who are all safe.

I know so many of us complain about the rainy days (and there have been A LOT of them here lately). Many have also been joking about building an ark or succumbed to the frustration of yet another dreadful rainy day. The darkness in the sky has left many of us weary and TIRED. The kids are cooped up and we're all going crazy.

But then it happens. Tornadoes rip across entire cities and suburbs. Entire neighborhoods are gone. Families are mourning the losses of their homes...and worse...their loved ones. And all of the sudden, my frustrated, complaining spirit turns into one of two things: first, one of sorrow for the losses of so many...and then one of gratitude. I cannot even begin to fathom the devastation of losing everything you own and everyone you love. And my heart is breaking for those families.

And at the same time, it makes me sorry that I ever complained about these rainy days...when all they served to me was a mild inconvenience compared to the horrific storms many have experienced. In an instant, everything can change. All it takes is one moment for your life to be forever different. I am thankful today that we have been spared such devastation. And since there are places in this world that suffer from the agony of drought, I am going to even be thankful for all of this rain! I will not dread at another rainy day, but rather, thank the One who has made it. Every day that we have to live and breathe is a blessing from the Lord. I will rejoice and be glad in it! :)