12 May 2010
by Philippe Dulawan
I think over the last week, there has been a strong message from God in my life to appreciate and be thankful for what I have. This is a message I think everyone can take on board and take stock on how lucky we really are. There have been several instances during the week which has made me just stop and think, despite all my wants and desires of more, that there is so much to be thankful for in my life and in the life of those that I see around me. The first instance was simply just sitting at uni, reading a university magazine (Blitz – UNSW Arc Free publication) that had the article 'Gratitude Attitude'. Here is a little excerpt from this article:
"In a vortex of egotism, gratitude helps to reverse the trappings of the self, by engendering a simple appreciation of those around us. When we're consciously thankful for our relationships, the people in our lives take on increasing significance. We appreciate their words, personalities and actions more."
This is a simple message and was reinforced when I attended the Diocesan Youth breakfast, when the Diocesan Social Justice Coordinator, Evan Ellis, mentioned similar tones throughout his talk when he played a short clip with sound resounding facts.
It is fact that if we have four things:
1. A closet to put our clothes in;
2.
A refrigerator to put our food in;
3.
A bed to sleep in;
4.
A roof over our heads;
Then we are better off than 75% of the world's population!
This is an amazing truth and touches me deeply with cousins in the Philippines who do require assistance. This goes to show that we have much to be thankful for and a bit of perspective will allow us to see this. It is great to stop and appreciate what we have and be thankful for in our lives. It is however our duty to be able to rectify some of the injustices that we do see in our lives.