I have been blessed.

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the people and events that have happened in my life. With all the negativity that seems to be flying around my life these days, I haven't had a chance to focus on the blessings I have.

I am married to a wonderful man who would stop at nothing to come to my defense, even if it meant a bullet. That kind a love is rare in today's world, or so it seems. I can't even begin to thank God enough for bringing him into my life.

I have a family that loves me even in my craziness. We may fuss and fight at times but I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I have friends that are impossibly supportive and most of them I have never met face-to-face. They have gotten me through rough spots without even realizing it, and for that I am grateful.

As if these blessings weren't enough, I have a roof over my head, a job I enjoy, food in the fridge, running water, heat and electricity. I am soon to be a home owner and where it scares the crud out of me, I am lucky to have that chance.

Every year our church has "Orphan Sunday" when a special collection is taken up to help out orphanages all over the world. Babies that grow up never having a mother's love. This year, after seeing the video clip of children, it broke my heart. I want to go in and just say, "I want that one, that one and that one." It also made me realize how much I have taken for granted and for that very reason I must say, I have been blessed beyond my imagination, even through the rough spots and trials I endure.

Thank you, God, for all you have given me. Even in my pain, you show me that there is a light at the end of path and I will be okay in the end, whereever that may lead.