It's a shame that so many rarely count their blessings or take the time to think of what they are grateful for in life until something tragic happens. I'm no different, I try to remember, but life keeps throwing things in my path and I'm so busy just getting through each day, I don't. So in this world of economic crisis, crime, bigotry and hatred, some people may find it hard to feel grateful for anything. But there are so many things that we should be grateful for, there are always those who have it far harder than we do.
So what am I grateful for? Air to breath, food to eat, a roof over my head, my job, my health, my body that functions and does what I tell it to, my son and family who are always there for me, my experiences (even the painful ones) that have given me insights and led me to become the person I am today, the happiness I feel, the love I have in my life, my friends and co-workers, my car, my hobbies, money to take care of most of my expenses, the places I've been able to travel to, just about every aspect of my life.
What has me putting these thoughts into writing? Like I said, we usually don't take the time to do this until something tragic happens. I've found out that my uncle took his life yesterday. It seems odd that he chose that day to end his life. For those of you that know me, you know I celebrate the Wiccan holidays. Yesterday was Lughnasahd (basically our version of Thanksgiving). A day to look back over the year and be thankful for all that we have. It's also the first of three harvest festivals, again, being thankful for the bountiness of what we have in our lives and our accomplishments.
I can only assume that my uncle wasn't able to see any of those things. I've certainly had times in my life when I've been depressed - really depressed. But I never woke up one day saying this is it, I've had enough of life - and chose to act on it. I can't begin to imagine what my aunt and cousins are going through right now. I lost my father four years ago, but he died because of his health. I've never experienced someone that close to me committing suicide. I haven't seen my uncle in years - since I was a kid, so I'm a bit removed from it, I suppose. It doesn't seem real yet.
My aunt is alone right now trying to deal with this tragedy, my cousins all in different states. So I'm also very grateful that I'm surrounded by friends and family. I would never have to go through anything like this alone. My hope for my aunt and cousins is that through the pain they realize that we are here, even if we're separated by states, and we love them.
My uncle will be brought here to be buried next to his mother, so we'll be with all of them soon. And so I send up my prayers - take care of my uncle, let him know that he was and still is loved, and that we will miss him. Brightest Blessings and a safe journey.
What are you grateful for?
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