Counting Blessings

As a little girl I sometimes got to spend the night at my cousins house, or a friend's house. I was ALWAYS the first one to awaken. I just couldn't wait to see what wonderful things the day had in store. As an adult I do occasionally like to "sleep in" but I still look forward to each day with anticipation of new opportunities and blessings.
Lest you think I am a niave Pollyanna (well I am, sort of) I hate that bad things do happen to good people. I was saddend to hear a special friend recieved a diagnosis of cancer this past week. When we spoke just a short time after hearing the "C Word", she was upbeat, composed and spoke with clarity. She is as am I, an optimist. Her hope and faith are inspirational. There is such great value in that optimism and the perspective that results. She will not be defeated by a disease - rather she will "infect" all that she contacts with her hope, faith and optimism.
Today I am embracing my day. The joy of purpose, trust in my heavenly Father, the blessing of friendship, the anticipation of hope...each day is still and always, a new beginning, a fresh look, a new opportunity.