Thankful Thursday #10

I am so thankful for so many things everyday.

     My goodness, I am especially thankful for so many things today.  I feel guilty on top of thankful when seeing all the pictures of the destruction from Irma in Florida and surrounding states.  The guilt because we were in the path, but spared in so many ways.

We still have some schools closed here and many homes without power.  We didn't have the storms.  I think the cold front that came at the same time kept us from getting tornado weather.  The wind was crazy, though.  It's so sad the lives it has changed and how hard it is for so many people right now.  I am more thankful than usual this week.

One thing in particular I am thankful for is patient people.

I am not one of them.  My parents have always teased me about it because patience has never been one of my qualities.  My kids will tell you I panic about some things and I can't help it.  It's just part of who I am.

Since I am lacking in this area, I definitely can't advise or suggest those who are trying to cope after Irma to be patient.

     I can say I hope they are patient with each other.  Emotions run high, people are tired, hungry, thirsty, just want a shower, and are scared.  When you are overwhelmed like that it is very easy to panic and the worst thing you can do when someone is in a panic is tell them to calm down.  Just ask my kids.  When I am in a panic and one tells me to calm down I think it just makes it 10 times worse.

It's easy for me to sit here and say they should be patient with each other, but understanding everyone is scared and overwhelmed will only help.

Some people are calm by nature and never seem to get upset.  Some you almost want to check their pulse.  I would like to be a little more like that, but doubt it will ever happen.




And, then sometimes impatience is necessary!

A farm boy accidentally overturned his wagon-load of corn in the road. The farmer who lived nearby came to investigate. “Hey, Willis,” he called out, “forget your troubles for a spell and come on in and have dinner with us. Then I'll help you get the wagon up.”

“That's mighty nice of you,” Willis answered, “but I don't think Pa would like me to.”

“Aw, come on, son!” the farmer insisted.

“Well, okay,” the boy finally agreed. “But Pa won't like it.”

After a hearty dinner, Willis thanked his host. “I feel a lot better now, but I just know Pa is going to be real upset.”

“Don't be foolish!" exclaimed the neighbor. "By the way, where is he?”

“Under the wagon.”

From Ministry 127