Being thankful in all circumstances…

Look Around and See The Blessings

by Sue Graber

 

It's the day before Thanksgiving and I just finished working my evening shift at the hospital.  Being in a work environment like this can be bittersweet, where I find myself amidst the ups and downs that come to all of us sometime in our life.

It's easy to see by simply looking at faces if it's been an "up" day or a "down" day … for the patients and even for the medical staff.  

There seems to be so many people who are hurting.  Being here makes me more appreciative of every day that I simply wake up and feel good.  Having to work versus "being healthy and able to work" is a good way to look at it!

When I see someone in a wheelchair or walking with a cane or a walker, I am thankful that I can walk with both legs…

When I see a young pregnant couple checking in, knowing that there is a problem with their baby, I remind myself just how grateful I am that our two grandchildren are healthy.

When I see a patient and their family waiting in the "cancer treatment" area, it brings me back to that time when I was going through that situation and it gives me the courage to reach out in kindness to them, understanding a little bit what they are dealing with.

Having spent many, many days at the hospital with my family when my dad had several major surgeries, reminds me of how I felt during that time, and encourages me to reach out to those who look scared and apprehensive….Holding a door open for someone, saying "hi," helping a wandering soul who is confused by "where to go," and even a smile hopefully will comfort someone in a small way.

When I leave the hospital at night and sometimes see a homeless person walking down the street while I know I am going to a warm home with a  loving family, I say thanks, and I begin to wonder what can I do to make a difference so that everyone could have this basic need… a warm shelter.  Something we often taken for granted.

In our lifetime, we are all going to be met with trials and challenges.  What  a blessing that we don't have to "walk alone."  God promises to never leave us or forsake us.  AND he puts special people in our path to help us through the tough times!

We  have the opportunity every day to be that "special blessing" in someone's life.  

When you open up your eyes (and your heart), you'll be amazed at the opportunities that come your way! 

I'm THANKFUL my shift has ended and I can go home to a warm home and celebrate Thanksgiving with my family.  Sometimes it's the "little things" that I used to take for granted that are truly the things I am the most grateful for.

Wishing you and your family a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!  

Sue Graber has been happily married for 34 years, raising 3 daughters while working creatively from home as an administrative assistant and a fund-raising specialist. She loves reaching out to others in kindness and is on a mission. She has an amazing ability to teach others how to build and nurture relationships, spend quality time with their families while generating income from home with a greeting card and gifting business. Sue is passionate about showing others how they, too, can make a difference every single day!

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