Take a Breath and Look Around

Take a Breath and Look Around

By John W. Vander Velden

 

We live within a consumer driven economy.  Constantly bombarded by ads that make us desire more.  New cars have features our “rust buckets” lack, they build houses these days with such handy qualities not to mention the extra room we long for.  Whether it is the furniture that we collapse in after a hard day at work, or the size of the TV, or other electronic gadget, we chase after a moving target.  Sometimes it seems that we are coaxed to buy by a “carrot on a stick”, seeking the next thing before the warranty expires on what we have.

I am as guilty as anyone.  We all want the latest, the newest, the best.  It’s only natural, and the marketing guys know it.  But this post is not meant to point a blaming finger at you or me.  What I want you to think about isn’t the desire for the “next” thing, but rather to dwell a moment upon what things you have now.  Shouldn’t we be grateful for what we have?  Shouldn’t we be grateful for where we are?  Shouldn’t we be grateful for the people that make up our lives?

It is by changing our focus from what’s next to what we have, that can change us.  I think back to when we didn’t have a phone in the house, while I hold my cell in the palm of my hand.  No, it’s not a new phone, but it still can call nearly anyone on the face of the earth.  Kinda’ amazing don’t you think.

So take some time to remember when those things you take for granted first entered your reality.  Color television, central heat, the microwave, and all the other “things” that surround.  This is a suitable time of the year to catch your breath, while all the “Black Friday” ads coax us into the next purchases, and in that pause realize that we have a great deal.  That life will go on without the newest, the biggest, the fastest, the smartest, the whatever-est.  Take the time to watch the sun’s setting, to call your mother, or your child, or your grandchild.  Listen to the sweet sound of their voice be they near or far.  Take time and share it with those that matter.  The scent of a good cup of coffee or fresh baking cannot be purchased no matter what the advertisers tell you.  Savor life!  The good things, and yes, the rough parts as well.  For each day is a gift, a gift we too often take for granted.

So today, though my joints ache, I take a breath and look around, and I thank my GOD for all he has given…for HE has given a great deal….

And I hope you will too….

(462 Words)  11-22-2017