Have you ever gone through times when you did not have very much of… well, anything? I am not speaking of those things that we do not need yet greedily seek, never being content with what we have. I am talking about just your basic necessities not being met. Have your struggles ever been so great that you have no idea how to keep the roof over your head for another month, let alone where your next meal is going to come from? While some of us have never known such financial struggle, others have known even worse.
I have experienced both sides of the fence. Not being able to meet your own needs is scary enough, but I think it is even more so when you a have child or someone else that your responsible for and who is depending on you with their very life.
I recently wrote, “The Simplicity of Gratitude“ wanting to take nothing for granted and realizing how my own financial struggles have definitely made me more appreciative of even the smallest things that come my way. This is not some new revelation however, as it is something I have thought since I was very young.
But, perhaps we forget to be thankful once in awhile when things are going so great and therefore, maybe we are allowed opportunities (or struggles) as a reminder? That is why I wrote, “Would I Ever Know Jesus?” It is not about being a martyr, but rather how to recognize something good out of something bad, a chance to focus on the positives instead of the negatives, an opportunity for God to turn a curse into a blessing.
God is good and supplies our every need. We may not always like to admit it, but He knows what our needs are better than we do. I have a daughter and a couple of friends (some old and some new) that are reminders to me of what is truly important in this life.
On one hand, we need to survive and have our most basic needs and those of our families met. And I must admit, during times of struggle when my faith might not be as strong, there is nothing that restores it more than when people I don’t even know lend a helping hand. To be an unknown blessing to someone in need, is indeed to plant a seed (I just figured out a new poem!)
On the other hand, I have been stripped of everything before and yet my spirit can still rise above that circumstance, because of a simple embrace, someone’s attitude of grace, a listening ear, a word of encouragement, a small note left to brighten your day… I don’t know about you, but I soar from these seemingly small, but most significant acts of love. So, “thank you” to my daughter and my friends.
*May we never forget the blessings that come our way and may our attitudes reflect our gratitude and prayers of thanks.
Soul Seeds…
December 28, 2012 at 10:53 pm
I had not read this before and i am glad i did today as it is a true blessing to read! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your spirits life… i am so very blessed by it today. Much love to you Jessie and may you and your family be blessed in a very abundant way this new year my sister!
December 29, 2012 at 2:40 am
Funny thing my friend… I haven’t read this for many months myself, but did so after reading your comment. I must thank you as well, because its a reminder that turns out to be exactly what I need at this moment in my life again.
I hope you had a wonderful Holiday with your family Wendell and Happy New Year to you!
December 27, 2012 at 5:04 pm
This is wonderful! I think when we finally catch on to the “attitude of gratitude”, life goes so much more smoothly–at least, it has changed everything for me!! God bless you abundantly in the New Year–love, sis Caddo
December 28, 2012 at 1:09 am
Happy New Year and many blessings to you as well sis!
December 14, 2012 at 3:00 am
Reblogged this on Charles Ray's Ramblings.
December 14, 2012 at 5:00 am
Very much appreciated and so nice to meet you!
November 15, 2012 at 10:43 am
God bless yu
November 13, 2012 at 1:23 am
Thanks for targeting my like button. Your name is beautiful!
Wing His Words,
Pam
November 13, 2012 at 2:56 am
You’re welcome Pam and thank you for visiting. Many blessings to you!
December 1, 2011 at 4:09 am
Hi Jessie,
Sandra beat me to it, but I’ve also nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award. Please visit my blog when you can: http://lscotthoughts.com/2011/12/01/versatile-blogger-award-3/ You have a wonderful blog here and in the short time I’ve “known” you, I can tell you are a beautiful person who can touch so many peoples lives with your stories and faith~
Lauren :)
December 1, 2011 at 4:21 am
Wow my friends… I am so honored. And thank you so much Lauren! I was actually going to post the question of, what do I do if I’ve received more than one nomination for the same award? Of course, I’d like to mention you both when I post. You are such a sweet soul and I’ve already been blessed tremendously by knowing you ~ you truly are a beautiful poet and I’m grateful for our connection. So many blessings and prayers to you, girlfriend :)
December 1, 2011 at 4:26 am
Thanks, Jessie, for you very kind and gracious words. I’m humbled~Also, in answer to your question, I would choose 15 blogs and simply thank Sandra and I. I don’t think it’s necessary to post it twice, choosing 30 blogs…I’m new to this, too, but have also received several awards (humbly, again) and I had the same question. I saw what others did and I think that is fine. I hope this makes sense…Blessings and hugs to you! :)
December 1, 2011 at 4:35 am
Yes Lauren, that makes sense. I thank God for the different ways we can promote, support and encourage one another :) Warm wishes! ♥¸¸.•*¨*•♥ HUGS ♥•*¨*•.¸¸♥
November 30, 2011 at 11:36 pm
Jessie, I think you’re an angel. You have a lot to offer people.
December 1, 2011 at 12:18 am
Wow, my friend… my gut response is, “thanks, but if you only knew about all my flaws…” I have to keep reminding myself and practicing how to receive compliments graciously, because it’s difficult for me. It’s so much easier to do here though than in person :) I appreciate your kindness and your visit.
November 30, 2011 at 6:36 pm
Firstly, thank yo for subscribing to my blog.
The first post of yours that I read was kidnapped and I am still reeling from that. I am constantly amazed at the courage that people display and rad more about it most days when catching up with my blogging friends,
I applaud you for your honesty and courage in posting your blog. Thank you.
November 30, 2011 at 11:25 pm
Thank you so much for your kind words and I very much appreciate you taking the time to read. Many blessings and warm wishes to you.
November 30, 2011 at 3:13 am
Shared by someone who is more that a survivor. You are a thriver. God bless.
November 30, 2011 at 4:23 am
What wonderful strength and encouragement those simple words carry straight to my heart and I hold them dear. Thank you so much and blessings.
November 29, 2011 at 11:19 pm
We are surrounded by angels often in human form. I have been blessed so many times that I try to help as many as I can along the way. I’ve nominated you for a Versatile Blogger award. You can go to my website for more information.
November 30, 2011 at 4:19 am
Wow ~ gratitude indeed my friend :) I’ve just read about this on your site and I am so honored. Thank you! I must admit (being a newbie still) I need to research it more to find out what it means, but of course, I plan to participate. I just love finding other great people and causes to bless! How thoughtful of you and so very much appreciated. Many Blessings and warm wishes :) ❤ HUGS ❤