Stop & Smell the Roses...

I was in one of the local coffee shops with my daughter Emma yesterday. We go there at least once-a-week after school to get an ice cream sundae (don't ask why we get one at a coffee shop). While sitting there with Emma I couldn't help but over hear the conversation that the owner and some of the patrons were having. They were talking about how grateful they were. Grateful for being able to see the sunrise each morning. Grateful for being able to smell the flowers. Grateful for being able to walk and see and live life. I got to be honest, it was refreshing to hear a conversation of gratitude rather then what I usually hear - grumbling. Grumbling about gas prices, jobs, bosses, spouses, and whatever else you can think of.

I left the coffee shop in a better mood than I went in. It's amazing how when we think on the good things that God has blessed us with how are outlook on life can change from half-empty to half-full! I really appreciate that coffee shop! I really appreciate the attitude of those folks. I really appreciate God for allowing me the opportunity to be an innocent bystander - I needed to stop and smell the roses myself yesterday!

Paul was on to something in his letter to the Philippians when he said, "Rejoice in the Lord always...and the God of peace will be with you." (Philippians 4:4-9, NIV) May the God of peace be with you today, tomorrow and forever!

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