Blessings Counted

I literally tried to count my blessings, and it's just not possible. I understand now what it means to lead a blessed life.

It's not something I've always known; I used to take for granted this fact. And it's not something I woke up one morning with the epiphany of. It's something I've learned, come to realize, over recent years, with certain events bringing it more and more to light.

I won't deny that I've felt that naive, immature feeling that life has slighted me in some ways. There have been times when I've felt like I deserved something that I'd been cheated out of, or that I'd missed opportunities that I should have been handed more easily. But if I've learned anything over my 26 years, it's that life is what you make of it, and that you should always remember the positives.

My parents are largely to thank for how wonderful my life is. I would guess that at least 90% of the positive in my life is due to what they have bestowed upon me, either directly or tangentially. Be it experiences they have given me, or doors they've opened for me through their own hard work and advice, or even just the characteristics I've inherited from their teachings and genetics, they have made it possible for me to lead a fulfilling life.

Not that my life is always a walk in the park. I've had plenty of stressful times, and moments where I've felt so overwhelmed I didn't know how I could move on. But I've always sprung back, and I thank my parents for helping me be the kind of person who doesn't let the bullshit keep them down.

I'm blessed by the other people I've met and known as well. Even the relationships that were not good helped me become who I am today. I am grateful to have some of the most fantastic people in the world as my friends. Through good times and bad, fun and worry, they have been there, and knowing that you have such a support system does such wonderful things for your mental well-being. Though time and distance may separate us, there are so many people whom I care deeply for, and I know the feeling is reciprocated.

And all of the amazing things I have seen! Phenomena both natural and man-made... sights, sounds, smells, tastes, feelings that words can never hope to convey. Things that every being should be able to experience, at least in some small way.

That is what I hope to accomplish. This world, and our lives, are such miracles. I want for everyone to appreciate just how spectacular life is, even in the lowest of lows and the hardest of times. Each of us has some magic in our lives, some beauty. I beseech every one of you to look at what you have, really look at what you've seen and done, what you have, and see the wonder of it. We all share in our hurts, but we all share in our blessings. Remember those blessings always.