Mother’s Day had recently passed, and it was and always will be a special occasion for all the mothers and future moms. My biological mother lives 300 kilometres away and was very busy with work so we were not able to celebrate Mother’s Day together. I had called her in the morning, we had a lively and sparkling conversation that ended briefly due to her schedule. That usually sums up most of my mother’s days, but I almost forgot that I was living with my stepmother now. My father remarried a lovely lady which he met back in college and they are now enjoying life here in Australia with the modified family that includes me.
My stepmother is the best in all the things that she does. I see her as a perfectionist, only thriving for the best possible outcome in any given situation. She is extremely patient, it’s in her nature to care for those around her, she is one of the most persistent people I have seen, and she gave birth to my baby brother who I find so explicitly adorable. She spends most of her time in her remarkably well-maintained garden and anything she cooks will always be selected for seconds.
After the short phone call with my biological mother, I began to think of what I could do for my stepmother for this momentous event. I decided to get her a bouquet of pink carnations; these beloved blooms are the symbol of a mother’s undying love. I know that because I googled it. After I have decided what to do, thoughts of my stepmother’s love and care along with everything that she did for my benefit all came rushing into my mind. I realised that there are so many things that I had been too familiar with, these simple little things like making sure that I have something (usually better than what you can get in a restaurant) to eat and giving me a comfortable, clean, and healthy home. It struck me that not everyone is blessed with the same things I enjoy daily. It didn’t stop at that, I also started to think of every blessing that God had given me that I tend to consistently overlook.
There are so many things in life that we seem to ignore because we are too focused on the negative things that are present as well. Every good thing came from above (James 1:17) and we need to learn to open our eyes so we can cherish each one of those delights. We should learn to appreciate life’s simple joys daily. Think of all the things that you should be thankful for today. It may be your happy marriage, your beautiful children, your complete set of teeth, a pantry that’s not empty, some warm clothes for the winter, fast internet connection, or just even having the time to read this devotional. Every little thing is a blessing and I pray that all of us will be grateful for the fact that God is good, and He always will be.
James 1:17
New International Version (NIV)
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
New International Version (NIV)
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.