Thank You, God

As the lenten season of sacrifice and simplicity comes to a close to make way for the pure joy that Easter brings, I realize that there are so many things that I need to say to you, lord, that I often forget during the ordered chaos of life. While there is no worthy excuse explaining why I don't say these things every day, but I will say them now, and every day from now on.

I am so incredibly grateful to be gifted every day by your presence in others. Every encounter with another is an encounter with you. Every person I meet, or even the stranger on the street, is an opportunity to witness Your love and beauty. There is so much beauty in the world, in everything, and in every person. I'm so grateful for this, in every form it takes, from a stunning sunrise, to the smallest flower, to a baby's laugh, to a stranger's smile. I thank you so much for the people you put in my life. Without them, I would not be the same person I am today. While there are some people I do not see eye-to-eye with, I truly believe that each person that has ever been in my life has taught me a different lesson.

I am also thankful to be given the opportunity to also be a witness to others. I strive to be a living example and witness to your incredible love and forgiveness. Your love is so great that You sent Jesus to become man and die so we could be saved. I mean, what greater love is there? Please help me continue to be a living witness to others of your pure love, and the joy that it brings.

Along these same lines, thank you so much for your teachings through your son. He is the greatest example of the way to live our lives for which we could ever hope. His incredible love for and patience with everyone, even those who society looked down upon, is something each and every person should hope to emulate. My generation has seen so much hate, from 9/11, to ISIL, to everyday slights and anger. Jesus' love for all is something more people, (including myself) could learn from if we only took the time.

Last, I want to thank you for making me the way I am. It may have taken me all of my life up to this point, but I have a true respect for myself because I am the way you intended me to be. Nothing more, nothing less. Every single thing that society views as an imperfection or misstep is proof I have lived and I am human. Thank you for the simplicity this brings to my life, simply by knowing I am exactly what I should be.

I pray others too see themselves the same way and gain the same peace of mind. We are all created in your perfect image, and we all deserve love and kindness and respect.

I pray the peace and simplicity brought by this Lenten season continues in my own life, as well as spreading to those that I encounter.

– Your Servant, Your Child, Your Follower