Patience is a virtue, but is hard to hold on to during life’s challenges. I have been having a hard time being patient with my medical condition and all of the testing. My physical therapist is always encouraging me to look at things as a glass half full. My neurologist tells me to not think of the things that I am losing but what I have left. I have to continually stop myself and remind myself of their words of wisdom.
As we go through our challenges in life, how many times do we feel down or defeated? I know for me it is a lot of the time. I have been thinking about this today. I realize that I need to remember to find gratitude in all that I experience. Gratitude pulls you away from thoughts of yourself and into an outward reflection.
Even in what I felt were the darkest of times, I have been able to pick out some small part to be grateful for. Most of these were in hindsight, but still visible.
One of the parts that I am grateful for is my knowledge of my Heavenly Father. His influence has always been a constant in my life. He has taught me to be a better reflection of myself. He has taught me how to raise my children, without the environment of abuse. He has taught me to listen spiritually, so that I could be brought to the care of those that are helping me medically now.
I don’t know how I would have come to this point without their encouragement and support. He has taught me how to suffer with patience, all though at times I have grumbled and wanted to throw my best 2 year old tantrum. He is teaching me, through the expertise of another, how to rid my life of the effects of my abusive past. All of these things have trained me to be humble and have empathy for those around me.
I have promised my counselor that I will make the choice to live. Each day, that moment is brought to my mind and I ask myself, how will I choose to live this day? Finding the simple things to be grateful for is my choice. I may not have much, but I may have much to give, of this I am grateful for.