Too Blessed to be Stressed?

A post that I borrowed from the Kerrville Church of Christ facebook page last Sunday has been resounding in my head all week long. I keep thinking of other platitudes--really that's what they are--that people use during hard times to make themselves or other feel better. The one on my mind today is "Too blessed to be stressed." If you know me well, you know that I have several situations in my life right now that are causing a great deal of stress. My innermost circle of friends and most of my family know the details of these situations--but most importantly God knows and is at work. I guess what I'm trying to say is that today was such a blessing...quiet, restful, soothing to my soul. But the stressful situations don't just go away. Lately, maybe more than ever before, I've been wishing for a magic wand or some ruby red slippers that could banish my pain or remove me from the situations that cause so much stress. Truth is, we have no such means of getting rid of stress. Blessings like a quiet Saturday help calm the storms of life, but we simply aren't promised a storm free existence. As I'm writing, I hear my son playing beautiful music on his guitar. I hear the happy sounds of Russell and Caleigh returning from their evening walk--sounds that remind me of the blessing of family. The washer is running, a reminder of that I am blessed with material things. There is an incredible lightening show in the distance--we will most likely be blessed with rain in the coming hours. So how do I focus on being blessed, when I am so stressed? I think it just comes down to being aware of the blessings poured out on me daily. Taking time to acknowledge each thing--each person--each moment. Showing adoration and gratitude to a God who cares for me. Knowing that even in times of great pain, confusion, and anxiety, He is with me. The sound of a gentle rain on my patio is the perfect reminder.