I tend to get really frustrated at what I see around me and to think it's a bit hopeless. I believe that our basic and constitutionally endowed freedoms are under attack in America. I believe that human depravity is finding new ways every day to wreak havoc on our order and our lives as seen in the Boston attacks. I believe that the voices of individual thinkers are becoming drowned out by the mob voice of group-think and irrational emotionalism. I tend to have a "the world is ending and there's nothing we can do to stop it" mentality when it comes to matters of politics and evil. But the other day a comment made in passing gave me a brief moment of perspective.That comment made from habit, that it could be a lot worse, reminded me....it could be a lot worse. And that thought made me thankful.
I am thankful that I live in a country where violent attacks on innocent lives are still greeted with horror and a degree of surprise, rather than being an expected daily occurrence.
I am thankful that we have amazing hospitals and emergency personnel that respond immediately and effectively to save lives, whether on the clock or not.
I am thankful that my daughter can still grow up to vote in a democratic nation and that her vote will count as much as any man's.
I am thankful that we still have an organized government that protects the lives of its citizens both at home and abroad.
I am thankful that I can still make so many decisions without government interference and that the music I listen to, shows I watch, and words I read have not been censured.
I am thankful for the freedom to worship my God with my family and to freely and joyfully impart the love of the Father to my child.
I am thankful for every church and organization that seeks to meet the basic physical needs of hurting people here and abroad.
I am thankful that we are not all the same and that our diversity is by God's design.
Most of all, I am thankful that my God reigns sovereign over all these earthly issues that I get so passionate about. I am thankful that one day every knee will bow to him. I am thankful that his sacrifice secured a future in heaven for his children where there will be no tears and no death. I am thankful that he is the true Healer, Provider, and Protector.
