Blessed Independence!

On this birthday of our country we are reminded of the gifts of freedom and priviledge. The first week of 2017, our Chosen to Shine team was blessed to serve in a third world country. If you are able to travel with a mission team, it is a life changing experience. It is understood that the USA has it’s own issues. However, there is NO OTHER COUNTRY in the world that provides it’s citizens with opportunities as the RED, WHITE and BLUE!

This past week at a home improvement store the complaining was rampant! One of the customers kept asking where the manager was, as one young man, running the entire department, worked as fast as possible. Customers were there to take advantage of a PAINT SALE. He was amazingly polite to everyone in spite of the negativity. Others were griping that each time they buy paint, the companies change the availability of colors. PEOPLE, WE LIVE IN A PRIVILEGED COUNTRY!

In third world countries we see people waiting in line for medicine or dental needs for hours in the boiling heat, sun beating down and MOST IMPORTANTLY with a grateful SMILE on their faces. The children in line play with each other and giggle as they wait for much needed help. At an early age their teeth are rotting. This is due to no clean water and lack of abilities to brush their teeth. They drink bottled soda (when afforded) to keep from illness, yet it rots their teeth. They would be HAPPY to live in THIS great country of ours!  We can easily walk into places to use a bathroom, drink clean water, obtain food, education and paid work. They wouldn’t believe that we go to a medical office where you have i-pads or games to play during your wait and children leave with a prize!

While celebrating this weekend, remember to be GRATEFUL for this amazing country we live in. When you are inconvenienced by something, remember the PRIVILEGES you been granted. If you have expenses, be thankful for the job you have to pay for them. If you are out of work, opportunities are available. Harsh but true…even in loss, we see people come together to help give our loved ones a proper burial. They are not left to lie where they die. Say a prayer of safety for those that continue to provide our freedom and independence!  Enjoy your holiday and be grateful!

Peace & Blessings,

MamaC

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:3