My Girl

Miss Malainy

Oh Malainy!

Today I was so proud of you. You made a "grandma's" day! We were at the library for children's story time. After story time, an older "grandma" came into the library, looked at you and said, "Well, hello there little dear." She put her arms out, and instead of turning your head or running back to me, you ran straight into her arms and allowed her to lift you up. She had a little trouble lifting you up, due to the fact that you have gained some weight and she was a frail "grandma." Then you proceeded to give her a big smooch on the cheek, and I swear I almost saw tears in the "grandma's" eyes. She thanked you and put you down and you carried on your own way. "Grandma" got ready to leave and she waved goodbye to you, and again, you ran over to her and gave her this huge hug. Malainy, never lose that sweetness and joy. I love you so much.

Blessed

When I think of being blessed, I think of all the good things that have been given to me. I think of good health, incredible husband, amazing family, joy-filled daughter and the list goes on and on. But reading in Matthew today, I get a whole different view of being blessed: (5:3-10)

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (I don't often feel blessed when I am down in the dumps)

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" (Blessed by sadness?)

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (I often struggle with this, because I see great strength as a blessing, but in reality, meekness is a strength, although we associate it with being weak)

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled"

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy"

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God"

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God"

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Persecution and blessing do not go hand in hand for me, but I do believe there is much truth to this...having an eternal perspective does not always come naturally for me.)

It goes on to talk about being the salt and light of the world, using Christ's light and not our own. I do desire to be His light to this world, and not just in my terms of being blessed but also how scriptures tell us we are blessed, which do not always line up with the world's thinking of being blessed. Thank you Lord for the many blessings in my life, which would include the good and the "building" blessings.