Gratitude

I haven't written on the blog for a while so i just thought I would update on what's happening. For the past while I've been reflecting on how blessed I am to have so many opportunities lying in front of me. Since I've started to look at my life from a more grateful perspective, I have found many opportunities and directions that are enticing to me. Working in Africa with AIDS has been one of these opportunities that I am extremely grateful for. I am grateful for the experience that I will have to go. It's been a challenge trying to decide if that's a proper choice for me, and I'm still deciding, but I do know that I have enjoyed becoming more educated on global issues that people everywhere face.
Since I have been learning a lot about some of the trials that people in this world face I find that I am so grateful to be an American Citizen. I don't really think of myself as extremely patriotic, and perhaps that's because I associate patriotism with considering oneself better than another based on country of origin and I don't like that idea, the attitude of looking down on others for any reason. Luckily, for me, that's not what patriotism entails so I wanted to take the chance to express that I am grateful to live in such a beautiful land filled with any need I ever have and unceasing opportunity. This country gives me the chance to worship how I wish, which is such a blessing that many other people miss out on. The hand of the Lord is very evident in my life and I see it in the lives of others as well, without The Church I may not be able to feel that way or recognize it if I did. Lastly I am grateful for the people that are in my life. For my family who support me in making decisions, my roommates and friends who help me to discover the good things in life and for great teachers who instill in me curiosity. I have much to be grateful for and I hope that I recognize it more often in my life.