Gratitude

Rest, Relax and Reflect…. On Friday night, I had the privilege along with several of my Thirty One sisters to prepare a meal for the families at Ronald McDonald House in Long Branch.  WOW!  What an incredible experience.  You are probably wondering, why Ronald McDonald House, right?  They are a National Partner with Thirty One this year.

Thirty-One Gives will donate $450,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities® over the next three years, plus 150,000 “Welcome Bags” to families staying at a Ronald McDonald House across the country.

For years, I have always claimed to be blessed by Belinda’s good health because it was definitely God who had a hand in keeping her safe.  My drug addiction, though curtailed slightly, was still a part of my life when I was pregnant.  I often say, the only thing that I quit when I was pregnant was cigarettes.  No, I am not proud of it nor is it something that I brag about, it is just the truth.  Kids have always had my heart especially those who are sick or who are the unspoken victims of parents who are chronically ill.  No, hate mail, please!  I learned when I was working with my HIV clients (parents) that  although they tried, their sickness always managed to get in the way.  Were they bad parents? NO!  Did they neglect their kids? NO!  It is just that their health issues did not give them the opportunity to do what they wanted with or for their children. I know I diverted slightly….

Seeing the love and support given to these families in crisis is overwhelming.  They are grateful for everything and ask for nothing.  The true picture of gratitude.  Not just the saying “thank you” but feeling it in the depths of their being. Knowing that someone cared enough to cook them a meal, play with the siblings of those who are hospitalized or just being there to lend a helping hand.

What are you grateful for this holiday season?  I have been blessed in so many ways but the biggest GIFT that God gave me so many years ago, was Belinda and her good health.  Today, she still continues to be a blessing in my life.

Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!