We all have SO much to be thankful for.  Consider the following:

• If you woke up this morning with more health than illness...you are more blessed that the million who will not survive this week
• If you have never experienced battle, the lonliness of imprisonment, the agony of torture or the pangs of starvation...you are ahead of 500 million people in the world
• If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead and a place to sleep...you are richer that 75% of the world
• If you have money in the bank, money in your wallet, and spare change in a dish someplace...you are among 8% of the world's most wealthy people
• If your parents are alice and still married...you are very rare
• If you hold up your head with a smile on your face and are truly thankful...you are blessed because the majority of people can do that, but choose not to
• If you prayed yesterday and today...you are blessed because you believe God does hear and answer prayer even though you are in the minority by holding this belief
• If you can read these words...you are more blessed than over two BILLION people in the world who cannot read at all

There is no doubt that God is good and that we are blessed far beyond anything we think we deserve.  Though we can never repay God for His goodness we can demonstrate our gratitude through our praise and by service others.

Starting today, live your life as one who knows they have been blessed.  Begin with a simple thank you to God, then demonstrate your gratitude by serving someone else.

I am thankful for the freedom to write this and live my belief.  To every man and woman who is providing this freedom (and to the families of those who gave all)...THANK YOU.

Best Wishes,
Michael