I am sure that I am not alone in taking things for granted. Now and then I get a big dose of reality that awakens me to appreciate the small things that I have failed to appreciate. I wake up each morning with all my senses and abilities intact. Do I say, thank God, every day that I have been given, or rush to fulfill the day’s activities?
To my surprise, after having some health issues, I welcomed the ability to experience those small and familiar things… once taken for granted. Lord, you are the reason I have the use of my being, and I thank you!
When you and I are physically fit, the challenges in competing are fun and exciting, whether we win or lose. Our attitude is, wait until the next time; it will be my turn to win. Seldom do we think that it could be our last game or competition. We might be at the top of our game, and within a day that could all change. When that day comes, and circumstances change, we usually don’t have a plan B. It’s like being a champion athlete who ignores the somewhat gentle signs (your timing is off, recurring stiffness, longer recovery time from an injury, and the list goes on).
What are your plans when you can’t do the things that you have taken for granted over the years? Will you become a bitter person or a better person, when you reflect on the past joys of participation that you were able to share? Will you ask the Lord to help you bless others with your remaining abilities?
If we dwell on what we cannot do, it can affect us mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially. I know people who have withdrawn from others because of their disabilities due to aging. Believe me, that is not the time to fold your arms and close yourself off from others. If there is ever a day when we need to walk with open arms to embrace those who understand and love us, it’s now!
Each day, I’m grateful and blessed beyond measure for all that I have experienced and will experience during the time I have been given. May we be reminded each day in Psalms 118:24 NKJV: “This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.” For we are still in the land of the living.
Celebrate with us and experience the Good Life at the Villages Community Chapel in Cribari Auditorium every Sunday at 10 a.m., where you will be encouraged by the Word of Life and enjoy coffee and cookies with friends. The chapel is a place where needs are met, faith is affirmed, and new friends are embraced. You can view our worship services on YouTube at www.villagescommunitychapel.vgcc.club