I spent some time reflecting yesterday on how my faith life has been lacking a bit here of late. But I am also reminded that I have a lot to be thankful for in this life. An attitude of gratitude goes a long way in helping combat any feeling of lack I might be having in life.
One of the things I’ve grown to be grateful for is relatively good health. I’ve started walking again and logged over sixty miles in the two and a half weeks I’ve been walking. I’ve found that exercise can be pretty addictive and while I’m not up to the niles I’d like to be walking, I think I’m making good progress while I’m walking I either listen to music or podcasts that offer hope and inspiration, so that’s a positive result as well. I go next week to have bloodwork done at the doctor’s office and I can’t help but think my new exercise regimen will help in that regard as well.
In the area of gratitude in physical health, I’ve been able to continue my cessation of smoking cigarettes. I had a good streak running back in December with nearly 150 days away from smoking when an emotionally-charged situation sent me back out. On February 25th of this year, I once again stopped smoking and have 111 of being cigarette-free. I’m still using nicotine lozenges and know I need to try to wean my way off those, but one step at a time.
Speaking of staying away from unhealthy habits, I’m coming up on twenty-one years of sobriety from alcohol. I’ve been able to go to more recovery meetings and talk with some good and trusted friends. I’ll admit that these past months have been a true test of my ability to work the twelve steps and I’m grateful for the guidance and wisdom recovery has offered me.
Just before the school year ended, I was able to get my teaching certificate renewed for another five years. This will enable me to continue to do interim teaching positions. I already have one lined up to start the new school year in August and I am very grateful for that. These interim positions help keep me focused and directed in life and I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve been given in that area.
I also am grateful for a roof over my head, reliable transportation, food to eat, and so much more. So in the midst of questioning my faith life, I do realize that I have so much to be grateful for. In the midst of difficult times, I think that’s something we always need to keep in mind.
David Lee
David Lee 