Photo Frames, End Tables and a Good Dose of Gratefulness

I am not a patient person.  The truth is I like things done quickly and efficiently.  I hate waiting in lines, walking behind people who are too slow, people who ask to many unnecessary questions, and having to re-explain myself among other things.  I think (at least I hope!) as I get older and grow I am getting better at waiting after all I have managed to wait an hour at the DMV and still have the ability to be friendly to the clerk.  Though there are other times when my lack of patience gets one up on me.   I may be know to have cut in line or to have been less than kind to some customer service representative.

 So, it wasn't a big surprise to me when the other day I caught myself thinking how I would like to have my apartment completely furnished and decorated now!  I don't think it is wrong in itself to want our apartment to be fully decorated and furnished, but I think the urgency needed to be worked through.  After all what is wrong with waiting until we can afford to buy a coffee table or a picture for the wall?  There is no harm in piecing Derek's and my home together over time and as we can afford it.  Is instant gratification worth not being able to pay rent or looming credit card debt?  The furnishings in our home should never define who I am or how I feel! 

  When I focus on what I do not have I forget about all that I do have. Such as an awesome husband, a family that loves me, an apartment that I like, a dining table, a coffee maker, and a a kitchen aid mixer.  Here is the real kicker I have seen real poverty!  I have been in homes with no floors, no water, no electricity and hammocks as beds.  I have seen, talked and hugged children with no shoes and with not enough to eat.  I have written about it and shared my stories and feelings. Shame on me for being impatient for not having a coffee table, when I have carpet and a bed.  A warm and safe place to lay my head. 

We live in an instant gratification society and a "me" focused world.  I don't think nice things are wrong, however the focus on things that you do not have can screw your perspective.  I think it is important to be grateful for what you have, help those in need and to remember the importance of waiting for something.  When you have to work for something you value it and take care of it.  It serves as a reminder to us to be grateful for the things that we have been blessed with. 

Today, don't be in such a hurry.  Take a moment to enjoy life.  Take a moment to be grateful for what you have and don't be afraid to wait for something.  Please don't let our "instant gratification", "me" based society get the best of you!  Instead be patient, be still, and count your blessings.