Count Your Blessings

About a month ago, on a beautiful autumn day, I was in the great city of Tacoma with a little extra time between lessons. I decided to do something spontaneous and fun. So I got a lovely latte from Starbucks and headed to the waterfront (where Jill and Evan got engaged, I believe). Anyway, I parked my car, crossed the street and perched on a large stone overlooking the beach and bay. The trees near me were crimson and amber, the water and sky were bright blue, the air smelled salty, the gulls were crying, the sun was warming me through my leather jacket, my hands were warmly wrapped around my Starbucks cup, and it was just one of those moments you want to last a long time.

I smiled and heaved a sigh of contentment and it suddenly hit me: I probably wouldn't be doing this if I were married and had kids. And once again, perhaps more readily this time than at others, I thanked the Lord for the blessed gift of singleness! Being single means I can do spontaneous things by myself without consulting someone or leaving someone behind. It means quietude and meditation is fairly easy. It means I can make the decision to spend my money on frivolous things like a latte (on occasion, okay!). It means I can sleep through the night without a crying child waking me. It means I can quickly hop in the car and run to the store if I want to. It means I can travel across the country or across the globe if I want to! It means I can worry primarily about what the Lord thinks of me, not what my husband thinks.

I am in no way trying to knock marriage or family, as they are both wonderful institutions with tremendous joys and blessings that I have yet to experience. Nor am I saying that singleness doesn't have its definite down side. BUT, I decided I can't wait till it's gone to appreciate what I have. Remember, no matter what state of life you're in, there's always something to rejoice about! So give thanks, for this is the will of God for you!