Life’s Little Surprises

I was “not so gently” reminded today of how blessed I am.  Sure, my life isn’t perfect.  I work too much (case in point, I stopped working at midnight).  I take on too many extracurricular activities and struggle to keep up with all of them while trying to stay sane.  Moreover, I seldom have time to do the things I really enjoy. 

My responsibilities weigh heavy on my shoulders at times.  I can’t quit, and I am afraid of failure.  That’s why it’s so easy for me to become self-absorbed in my busy world.  I tend to focus on the unrealistic expectations I have for my life rather than reflecting on my blessings.  It seems that life has its way of numbing me to the point where it’s easy to take things for granted. 

There are times, though, when life throws a little surprise on your doorstep and forces you to pay attention.  Today was one of those days.  I have a friend whose life is being torn apart through no fault of her own.  Her struggles are brutal.  My problems pale in comparison.  I won’t share any details, but it was a surprise.

Sometimes life’s little surprises can be good.  Like when new parents who find out they are expecting a child (by the way, Greg and Katrina welcomed their baby into the world on Monday…congrats!).  Other times, the surprises can be painful.  Either way, it’s hard to embrace these surprises and learn from them.  For me, I am trying.  I am slowly learning not to take my life, my family, or my friends for granted. 

Remember to count your blessings now.  You might face sorrow when you wake up tomorrow.