Comparisons

If we did not compare, would we be more content?  Yes, and hopefully more aware and grateful for what we do have. Envy is a demon but sometimes, it is a motivator.

I speak of comparisons because I am guilty. My house is not Martha Stewart's but I do own this one. My car is old, but it does run. I could list forever the things I envy...and that saddens me when I have so many things for which to be grateful.

I am reminded of a friend, a Veteran who had no legs. It was a beautiful, warm summer's evening as we gathered on the deck with cold drinks to talk. Hubby was complaining about his ingrown toe nail. Our friend politely listened and said, "Do you know how much I would give for an ingrown toenail?"

Sometimes, we just need to be grateful, simply grateful.

Comparisons

Andrew received a wonderful Cort for Christmas and was thrilled but dreams of a Gibson SG.($1500).  He jams with an old family friend who has played for years and is allowed to play the SG.  This is his dream, to own one.  I simply answered, When you are grown and you have worked as hard as Bennie has, you may purchase your own.

That made me think of comparisons.  Compared to Andrew's first pawn shop electric, the Cort is a prince of a musical instrument yet he dreams of another...he wants the KING.

If we did not compare, would we be more content?  Yes, we would be unaware of things others have and be more aware and grateful for what we do have.  Envy is a demon but sometimes, it is a motivator.

I speak of comparisons because I am guilty.  My house is not Martha Stewart's but I do own this one.  My car is old, but it does run.  I could list forever the things I envy...and that saddens me when I have so many things for which to be grateful.

Now, as I type, the soft gentle rain, needed for so long, is falling, reminding me all things come when needed.  The heat comes on and I am aware I am warm, when many are not.

I am reminded of a friend, a Veteran who had no legs.  It was a beautiful, warm summer's evening as we gathered on the deck with cold drinks to talk.  Hubby was complaining about his ingrown toe nail.  Our friend politely listened and said, "Do you know how much I would give for an ingrown toenail?"

Sometimes, we just need to be grateful, simply grateful.