30 Days of Gratitude. Day 5

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.

When I started this 30 day experiment to change my outlook on life, I wanted to make sure that I thought of new and profound things to be thankful for. I didn't want to have each entry be something that I have already been grateful for all my life, and something that was rather common. I wanted each day to bring a new perspective on how much I have truly been blessed.

I usually do nothing spectacular in my day.... unless you consider getting all the laundry washed, folded and put away, spectacular. In which case, I still usually do nothing spectacular. :) Of course, I was trying to think of something specifically to be grateful for on this day while I did nothing but clean house and fold laundry. I thought of all kinds of things I am thankful for; Crock pots, washers and dryers, The Magic Eraser. But as I was praying and reading in the scriptures in the middle of the day (to give me the boost I need to make it through my day), it dawned on me! I am so completely and utterly grateful for the Savior! And although this is obviously nothing very new, how could I pass up a chance to express the deep feelings of love and appreciation I have for Him? I cannot even express the slightest bit of the feelings in my heart. I read a few chapters in Matthew today of the Savior's last days on this earth. It has been a while since I read these verses of scripture, and I was deeply moved again by how much He has truly done for the me, and for all of us. I am amazed at how quickly I can be filled with the spirit when I turn to the Lord and read His words. Almost immediately, I am encircled in the arms of His love, and I am OK. Actually, I am more than OK. I am home.

As I attended a stake primary meeting last night we sang the song, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me". The words to this song are so sweet and I love to hear the primary children sing it. But this was the first time I have ever heard this song sung only by adults. It was a different experience for me. Instead of thinking about the Savior being by the childrens' sides.... I was talking about the fact that He is always by MY side. The last verse states, "He is always with me, though I do not see Him there. And because He loves me dearly I am in His watchful care." I KNOW that we are in His watchful care. He is our Savior, and He loves us more than we will ever know. It doesn't matter the degree to which we have sinned in this life, NONE of us would ever make it to our Heavenly home without Him. I am so eternally grateful for His sacrifice for me and for the spirit that brings me peace in a world of turmoil and confusion. What a blessing!