What We Take for Granted

Recently a friend came to Juneau for a week, both to see me and to experience this section of Alaska. Since this is a scenic area with mountains, waterways, whales, and eagles, and more, I wasn't surprised when she began to exclaim about the beauty of everything she saw. However, she continued to be in awe with the beauty, shades of coloring, soaring eagles, etc., for the entire week!

I then began to realize that, though I too drink in the beauty of my surroundings, maybe I take it for granted sometimes and don't appreciate it as much as I should. This led me to reflect on the possibility that I could also take people for granted. I live with one other sister--we take turns leading prayer, cooking, cleaning and shopping. However, I realized that beyond a cursory comment on a meal or a thank you for doing the dishes when it was my turn, I don't often tell her how much I appreciate the little things she does for both of us, for me.

When we are both invited to dinner or a pot luck she is the one who usually makes a dish to take to the dinner. She is always gracious to my guests and goes out of her way for them. Things like these make me wonder if I acknowledge her goodness and kindness often enough, or if I am beginning to take her for granted. She is a blessing in my life and I need to let her know that.

Is there someone in your life that you take for granted? Is there someone who needs to know that she/he is a blessing in your life?

Marie Lucek, OP

Juneau, AK