…the mess to clean up after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
…the taxes I pay because it means that I’m employed.
…the clothes that fit a little too snug because it means I have enough to eat.
…my shadow who watches me work because it means I am out in the sunshine.
…the spot I find at the far end of the parking lot because it means I am capable of walking.
…all the complaining I hear about our government because it means we have freedom of speech.
…that lady behind me in church who sings off key because it means that I can hear.
…lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home.
…my huge heating bill because it means that I am warm.
…weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means that I have been productive.
…the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours because it means that I am alive.

~Nancy J. Carmody