What Are You Grateful For?

I have so many wonderful people and things in my life which I am so grateful for. Every moment of every day is a treasure waiting to be found. Sometimes the craziness of life gets in the way of feeling appreciative for every moment.
When I was younger I used to say my thanks at bedtime. I would reflect on all the days’ ups and downs and pick out what I was grateful for. I never realized that by hand picking what I was thankful for, I was missing many lessons that were taught by the hardships that were endured. Every moment is a blessing and a lesson.
Everyone loves the good times! The holiday parties, the family get togethers, bringing those far away for special memories to be made, oh how fun! The fabulous scents of the cookies, pies and fabulous meals can be smelled throughout the house. Christmas cheer can be found on their faces and through everyone’s laughter and smiles.
When those whom you love are not here, life can seem almost unbearable. But here’s the thing, I learned to be so grateful for all those precious moments that they gave me. I will cherish them forever. Sometimes I wish they were in front of me so I can tell them, “I get it.” But in my heart I know they are looking down and they realize it. I was taught some pretty amazing lessons by so many who are not here. I wish I could give them a huge hug and tell them thank you. I can’t, I can only look up and smile.
I have been taught through the gamut of emotions; the tears of a hard lesson learned and the joy of learning a valuable lesson. I might not have experienced a lesson first hand, I try to learn as much as possible from others. I have seen people who are grateful for anything given to them and I have seen some where pure greed had taken over.
I am grateful for everything; good, bad and everything in between. There are some days I take life and run super-fast to the finish line so that I can succeed. There are other days that I just let life lead me. I am grateful for my family and friends. I look forward to new adventures with friends old and new. I am so grateful for those who have parted from my journey; they left an everlasting effect on me. They are forever in my heart and I am grateful for every single moment.
What are you grateful for?