It’s easy to complain. It’s easy to look around and see all the bad there is in
the world. The crime, the violence in relationships, the inequity of our justice
system, the crooks in politics, the homeless, the jobless, the sick and disabled. Yes
there are many things we can complain about. If we’re not careful, these
problems will overwhelm us. These problems can become the primary focus of
our existence, and consume our lives.

On the other hand we could sit down and think about the good that is in
our lives. We can think about our family (even our teens) and all of the blessings
they bring us. We can contemplate our friends, health, jobs, possessions, and
most importantly our relationship with God.

This month let’s start the day focusing on the good that is in our lives. We
can shut the door, just for a few moments, to the nagging voices of problems and
disappointments. Let’s ignore the aggravations that start instantly when we open
our eyes, in the morning. Throughout the day we can focus on helping others,
saying kind words to others, and being joyful.

When we return home to our families, let’s not look at the disorderliness of
our homes and all the chores we have to get done. Let’s put a smile on our faces
and see the good in those around us, the kind acts they do for us, and even more
importantly, the kind acts we can do for them. Then let’s whisper this quiet
prayer, “Thank you Jesus.”