While I was working at Bellevue Marquette, I attended an evening of reflection for educators at Dubuque's Shalom Retreat Center. One of the presenters, a dear friend, shared this piece. Just as I found motivation from it on that evening, its message holds true to this moment. It is my hope you discover the same gift I received many years ago from this reflection.
"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
The Best Day of My Life is Today!
Today, when I awoke, I suddenly realized that this is the best day of my life, ever!
There were times when I wondered if I would make it to today, but I did!
And because I did, I'm going to celebrate!
Today, I'm going to celebrate what an unbelievable life I have had so far; the accomplishments, the many blessings, and yes, even the hardships because they served to make me stronger.
I will go through this day with my head held high, and a happy heart.
I will marvel at God's seemingly simple gifts: the morning dew, the sun, the clouds, the trees, the flowers, the birds. Today, none of these miraculous creations will escape my notice.
Today, I will share my excitement for life with other people.
I'll make someone smile. I'll go out of my way to perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone I don't even know.
Today, I will give a sincere compliment to someone who seems down. I'll tell a child how special they are and I'll tell someone I love just how deeply I care for them and how much they mean to me.
Today is the day I quit worrying about what I don't have and start being grateful for all the wonderful things God has already given me. I'll remember that to worry is just a waste of time because my faith in God and his Divine Plan ensures everything will be just fine.
And tonight before I go to bed, I'll go outside and raise my eyes to the heavens. I will stand in awe at the beauty of the stars and the moon, and I will praise God for these magnificent treasures.
As the day ends and I lay my head down on a pillow, I will thank the Almighty for the best day of my life. And I will sleep the sleep of a contented child, excited with expectation because I know tomorrow is going to be the best day of my life, ever!
"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situtation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want." Phillipians 4:12
Since receiving this several years ago, Sarah McLachlan's song, "Ordinary Miracle" weaves itself perfectly into this meditation's message.
In closing, please remember that none of us are ordinary and each of our lives is a miracle. May today, and everyday, be an opportunity to discover the extraordinary moments that reveal themselves to us! Seize the day! Go out and make today count!
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