Perspective

Have you noticed how changing your perspective on something can change your opinion of it? When my kids were little they would bring me their "art" and sadly I couldn't decipher any thing in it.  Then when they explained their ideas to me I was able to see what they were trying to express.

In the same manner, I've noticed in my life that sometimes I need a change in perspective in order to be thankful.

Sometimes being really focused on a circumstance or situation can cause you to see only the flaws or the negatives.  At times stepping back is what you need to do in order to gain perspective or see the bigger picture. There will be times when stepping back doesn't do anything but give you space. I have been up close and personal with some pretty big losses in the last few months and despite stepping back I haven't been able to see the big picture or even begin to grasp God's plan; yet here I sit.  

I don't know what God is doing, or why He has allowed what He has, but I do know that He is good.  And to quote a friend of mine named Nate, "Despite all the appearances, God is in control." Knowing He is in control allows and encourages me to change my perspective and to focus on His goodness and not on what "appears" to be a lack of it.

Today's gifts:

The love and thoughtfulness of a friend

Surprise gifts in the mail

Hot air balloons 

Freezing outside together

Used books