If you ever start feeling poor, I recommend watching The Cinderella Man movie (ok - except for all that icky boxing and some swearing).Especially this scene (click to watch the clip), brings me to tears every time I watch the film. The family had just discovered there would be no more milk as they were past due on the bill so they added water to the little bit they had. They have 1 little slice of meat for supper and James' little girl was still hungry. So many parents in these situations are such valiant examples and go without as James did. Eventually their electricity is turned off in the middle of the freezing winter and the kids start getting sick. This quote by Sheri Dew seems to fit so many valiant souls who endure such hard times, "Persistent inclement weather builds character and strength."
After watching this movie, I felt so blessed just to have warm clothes, a warm semi-clean house, food, and a steady job for Jimmy. And it puts perspective on life when I realize I'm fiddling with nonessential worldly concerns and purchases. It seems that our material possessions far exceed those from any other period of time. We have so many opportunities for education, hobbies, recreation, etc. So with all these blessings, am I making the most of my situation and my life? A quote from EverAfter reminds me that we have a responsibility to make the world a little bit better: "You were born to privilege, and with that comes specific obligations."
So today I'm grateful for the strength that so many show in challenges and trials. It gives me courage to keep a goin' and to remember to count my blessings (rather than counting my trials). 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 ...
3 comments:
Amazing insight, Heather! This is so true. Lots of times I wonder why we are living in a time of such prosperity and if it is a blessing or a challenge. We have other trials to help build our character, I guess. But as in "Rocky" rising above his circumstances (ha! or even REAL athletes!) it certainly seems to be a character strengthening exercise. Gratitude certainly wins!
Yes, so true. I haven't seen that movie, we should rent it.
Everafter is one of my all-time favorite movies. I only purchase movies I love, and that is one of them. I have that quote listed as one of my most favorite. It applies perfectly to the gospel, doen't you think?
It seems that the smallest things are the ones we need to be most grateful for. Good reminders Heather!
What great thoughts Heather. It is so great to get a reminder on keeping the proper perspective. It certainly makes things easier when we remember to count our blessings!
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