This year I choose to see things in a different light. I am thankful that I have a messy flour covered kitchen because it means I have a home to share with friends and family. I am thankful for the thousands of cookies and treats and the time it takes to make each one because it means I have people to share them with. I am thankful for the 20th trip to the supermarket in one day because it means I have the funds to purchase things to really make those cookies shine. I am thankful for the struggle of school because it means I have intelligence, knowledge, and talent to complete goals I set. I am thankful for our crammed home, because it means that my family is safe and sheltered. Most of all, I am thankful for the stress of the holidays because it means that I am wanted by friends and family.

As we move through the holiday season, it is easy to get sidetracked by the secular demands of life. So, I choose to take time to remember all the blessings that have come my way and remember those less fortunate. I pray for those that don’t have a home. I pray for parents and children who do not have a safe home. For those that live in war zones that leave each day not knowing if they will return home that night. For those that voluntarily go to war zones and leave families behind never to return. For those affected by natural disasters. For parents who have lost a child or children that have lost their parents. For any others I may have forgotten who have fallen on hard times and difficult circumstances.

This year, take a minute and alter your perspective.