I remember my dad saying to me multiple times growing up, “no child of mine is going to be an ingrate”! Is that even a word? Either way, I knew exactly what he meant and I knew that he also meant my attitude needed some adjusting and a little thanks and gratitude were in order. I would love to say that I now have this lesson down pat, but I regret to say, I still suffer from a less than pleasing attitude from time to time.
When the circumstances of life are tough and things aren’t going my way, or the right way, or the fair way, the way they should, you can see where this is going, what is the first thing I do? Give thanks, Ohhhh, how I wish, but usually, I respond with things such as; worrying, complaining, doubting, possibly even throw an all out fit (very adult of me I know).
When these attitudes rear their ugly little heads, I need to learn to exercise my counting skills and begin to list off my many blessings. As I begin to count…
#1 – God is on my team & loves me with an everlasting love (That’s good news people)!
#2 – I have wonderful family and friends that love and support me.
#3 – I have my health and many are suffering.
#4 – I have a job that allows me to pay my bills and many are unemployed and struggling day to day.
#5 – I have a roof over my head, food in my cupboards & a comfortable bed to sleep in and many are out in the cold with no place to call “home”.
and on and on my list goes….
And all of a sudden, my attitude has been adjusted and proper perspective is restored and I am grateful. When I count my blessings, it brings peaceful perspective that allows me to weather the storms this life is sure to bring. Lord, help me be quick to count because no child of your’s should be an “ingrate”.
Neeserisms 
What an about-face our counting sessions can do for our self-centered focus. You are so right-on, my dear niece! How I thank God for you and how I have enjoyed the truth of your writings. You are one of my rich blessings to count! Love you!