I have had the opportunity to support the Haiti relief efforts by providing satellite imagery analysis packages, which illustrate the extent of the devastation and identify the hospitals and safe landing zones to be used by those in such terrible distress. During this short period of time, which seems to have dragged on for an eternity, I have gained an acute appreciation for the blessings in my life. Aside from faithfully relying upon God for direction and recognizing his hand in my life and our country, I am eternally grateful for my loving wife and three children.
In the past, my wife and I have had conversations about how our home seems to be shrinking as our children are growing. There are times when it seems like we are right on top of each other. That being said, it’s amazing how a catastrophic event such as the Haiti earthquake can fundamentally change your perspective on even the little things. Since then, I have realized that I am blessed to even have a home and one that is structurally sound, warm and dry. A house that once seemed to small and the cause of short tempered arguments has become a place of peace and refuge from the world. Our children haven’t been arguing as much lately. Granted, there is still one or two instances where one of them pulls the other one’s arm off and beats them with it, but all in all, things are far greater.
Along with my contribution to the relief comes long hours at work and lunches (and often times dinners) at my desk. Interestingly enough, I leave work so much more fulfilled, with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and empathy for anyone who experiences such devastation disasters such as this.
In closing, take time to focus on the things in your life that regularly go unrecognized as the blessing they truly are. They are the small things that we take for granted that so many outside this wonderful country don’t have. Know that you are blessed beyond the possibility of complete recognition. ….That doesn’t mean you cant try.
Joe
