Think Positive

We have had a tough couple of weeks at work. We contract with a state-funded program that works with adoptive families. Due to the economy (I know, I'm sick of hearing about it, too), the state took some cuts. Due to the cuts in the state, we took a 15% cut. So for the past two weeks, we have known that one or more of us would have to be laid off... we were just waiting for the official word. Tuesday morning, we were all called in to the conference room, where our director let us know who had been let go - one of our therapists, Christie. Someone in our Jackson office had to be laid off as well. (Please keep Christie and Jason in your prayers). Although it was a relief to know that I would be able to keep my job, it is difficult to see a co-worker have to go through something like that. There are few words that can be said to bring comfort and encouragement. Morale is low and the office is pretty depressing. So I go home and turn on the TV to try to find some relief and take my mind off things... but that doesn't really work. I used to enjoy watching the news... now it is more depressing than ever. I feel like I'm being bombarded by negativity. It is affecting my thoughts and actions, and at times I feel like I'm drowning in bitterness. But in all reality, we still live in the wealthiest country in the world. We, and more to the point, I have so many things to be thankful for. I have seen some people do this on their blog, and I'm going to steal it... in an effort to ward off the bitterness and negativity, I am going to think of ten things that I am thankful for today:

1. I woke up this morning in good health.
2. I woke up this morning with my husband laying by my side, which means he made it through another night of work safely.
3. I woke up in a bed in a home with air conditioning... 3 things that a huge number of people in this world do not have and will never have.
4. I had a car to drive to work this morning.
5. God has blessed me with a job through which He provides for Michael and me financially.
6. I received an encouraging facebook message this morning from a friend who probably debated on whether or not to even say anything - it has helped me to find strength to get through the day.
7. Even though I forgot to pack my lunch this morning, I still found something to eat at the office, and I have never had to miss a meal because I could not afford food.
8. Spring is here and it is finally warm outside. I love when it is warm outside.
9. My husband and my dog make me laugh ever day... they are two of my greatest blessings.
10. God had forgiven my sins, and no matter how bad things may get, I know that this world is not all there is. I have something awesome to look forward to!
    

Okay, I wasn't sure that would work, but finding 10 things to be thankful for was pretty easy... and I actually do feel a lot better!! I hope that, even when you are having a bad day, you take time to count the blessings that God has put in your life!