GRATITUDE, JOY.....KNOWING THE LORD IS WITH ME

One of the most powerful emotions that I have been experiencing this year is GRATITUDE, and with it comes immeasurable joy. I consciously acknowledge that for everyday, that I live, I am blessed, amidst all that is happening at this time, the financial crisis, the crimes, etc., not only in Jamaica but on a global level.
My chosen virtue card for today says: JOYFUL - I dance in the happiness and joy of life, free from fear and worries. It matters not what rages around me. I am fully covered.

I'm reminded of the following song, Words & Music by Charles A. Tind­ley, 1905.

When the storms of life are raging, stand by me (stand by me);
When the storms of life are raging, stand by me (stand by me);
When the world is tossing me, like a ship upon the sea
Thou Who rulest wind and water, stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of tribulation, stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of tribulation, stand by me (stand by me);
When the hosts of hell assail, and my strength begins to fail,
Thou Who never lost a battle, stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of faults and failures, stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of faults and failures, stand by me (stand by me);
When I do the best I can, and my friends misunderstand,
Thou Who knowest all about me, stand by me (stand by me).

In the midst of persecution, stand by me (stand by me);
In the midst of persecution, stand by me (stand by me);
When my foes in battle array, undertake to stop my way,
Thou Who saved Paul and Silas, stand by me (stand by me).

When I’m growing old and feeble, stand by me (stand by me);
When I’m growing old and feeble, stand by me (stand by me);
When my life becomes a burden, and I’m nearing chilly Jordan,
O Thou “Lily of the Valley,”Stand by me (stand by me).

I am comforted knowing that He is always with me.

FRIENDS
I stand today, grateful to God for the blessings in my life, even the small ones. I thank Him for my circle of friends (tiny circle) but good and real.

Over the past few days I was hit by the flu bug, which kept me away from work for a few days. The discomfort aside, my tiny circle rallied around me, for the ones who were not able to drop by, they called, inquiring if I was ok, and if I had been to the doctor and taking any medication. For those who could, they came bearing enough food to last me for the days I was home. Yesterday, a co-worker dropped by with two plants for my home. I placed them in my living room and instant life was added to my home. It was sheer joy the entire afternoon.

I feel so good about myself, my life and all that's in it at this moment in time and I am grateful.