Life's Simple Blessings

Since my diagnosis, I have developed a new appreciation for the simple things in life. Everyday, run-of-the-mill, joys and blessings that have always been present, but that I have typically taken for granted. You see, I am a very high-energy, tightly wound personality, which means that I usually speed through my daily schedule without noticing the presence of God in so many different things. But things have changed.

For example, I am much more aware of God in nature. He is present each morning in the clear skies, the light breeze, the green grass, and the flowering trees and plants in my neighborhood. I see Him in the waterfall that I pass halfway to the church. I hear Him when the birds are singing, and the rain is falling.

I have pledged to take NOTHING for granted in the days ahead. When I sleep well, I am grateful. When I wake up each new day, I am thankful for another day of life, and I am excited to see what new miracle awaits my discovery. When I meet a stranger, I wonder if God intentionally arranged for our paths to cross so that I might speak a word of encouragement into their life.

Saturday is now my favorite day (after Sunday, of course) because my new “simple life” routine includes an early morning ride on my Harley just after sunrise. The air is so refreshing, and the sky is so clear. The wind in my face, and the sights, sounds, & smells of God in Nature awaken my senses to His awesomeness! Being a lover of food, my final morning destination is usually a restaurant or coffee shop. Today, I did BOTH. Breakfast at Waffle House, and now I am sitting at the new Starbucks in Augusta writing this entry and celebrating their grand opening with a GRANDE COFFEE!!! Life just doesn’t get any better than this! Our Midland Valley Nazarene Bikers jokingly advertise that our motto is “Ride to Eat; Eat to Ride”! I try my best to follow that “creed” faithfully!

Life is too short to rush through it! Take it from me; none of us are guaranteed that we will be around forever. Take time to notice the many faces of God found in the simple things of everyday life. Laugh more. Smile more. Slow down and enjoy life. Love your family. Love your God! Make sure that HE is Number One in your life! Only in surrendering totally to Him, will you truly discover the joys of living! Isn’t that an ironic thought??? Only in “surrender” do we find real “victory”! I love you!