Resolutions and the Pursuit

(Copied from myspace blog.)

My grandmother sent me a lovely reminder two days ago in email form. She reminded me to be happy with what I have in the present - to stop complaining about what I lack, and be content with all that I do have.

I know it sounds simple, and the idea is simple, but I often forget and long for those luxuries, and even relationships, that I cannot acquire. How silly! I often find myself irritated by people who complain a lot, but then I don't hold my tongue when those ugly thoughts creep up on me. I know exactly why I'm irritated by it; I often cannot control myself when it comes to complaining. I join in and with the best of them.

And to what avail? Self-pity? That's helpful. Ha!

I am glad that my grandmother reminded me of this little and simple fact. Be happy and content with what and who you have. From my first memory of her until now, I cannot recall a single word of complaint out of her.

I have a husband who loves me wholeheartedly, loyal friends, food, a job, a house, furniture to sit and sleep on, clothes to keep me warm, pets to raise my spirits, art to participate in, and an uplifting and encouraging family, to name just a few. Why do I complain? Why do we complain?

I think I let this idea creep into my head sometimes, this American idea (or maybe just a human idea?), that I deserve something more. I deserve a happy home all the time, to have enough money, to do well in school, a great job, understanding friends and family, lots of material things, and happiness.

We have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Pursuit is the key word there that we miss. It is a pursuit, not a guarantee. I think my new every day goal is to complain less, and enjoy more. Life is too short and no one guarantees me anything - not even my next breath. This is obvious, I know, but I often look over the obvious and focus on the things that I lack.

That is a terrible attitude to have, one that I'm quite sure God is not happy about, and I do not want to be a part of it anymore.