Answered Prayers

I am always amazed at the variety of ways that personal prayers are answered, and I know that MOST of the time it really has to do with the state of my heart and my willingness to SEE the blessings that are continually pouring out from the Heavens to bless me--and each of us--everyday.  Case in point, I recently found myself having a difficult day, fighting off a particular stubborn outbreak of "comparititus."  This is my Kryptonite:  Comparing myself and my life/circumstances to others.  It lays dormant until, BAM, it can hit so quickly, unexpectedly, and irrationally.  This particular episode happened on Christmas Day, always an emotionally charged day for me (I'm not sure why).  As we were gathered with extended family to exchange gifts, I excitedly waited for the moment when Steve and I would give our combined gift to his brother and his wife.  It was a painting that we bought for them that made reference to the song, "Consider the Lilies" in memoriam of their 2 year old daughter, Lily, who passed away a few years ago. I wanted my sister-in-law to know that we think about Lily all the time and miss her.  Before we had a chance to give them this gift, however, this same sister-in-law gave her gifts to Steve's younger sister and Steve's parents.  Her gifts were beautiful paintings that she created for each of them. This is a new talent that Kim began developing this year, and has become something that brings her much joy.  I love that she has this passion. She is very creative and artistic in many other areas, and this is another medium which she has discovered for expressing her creativity.  I love her work and hope to someday own something painted by her, and I know that she was touched by the painting that we gave her.  But I could feel that pesky "comparititus" begin to creep in.  I fought it all day.  However, by the next day it overcame and overwhelmed me as I struggled to find and realize the things that I do well. I am not artistic in the sense that I can create art, although I do love my home and the way that I have decorated it.  I love the written word. I am moved to tears by a beautifully written song, poem, short story, talk, play, or novel.  I can hear or read many different sources and find connections between them.  I feel this is one of my creative gifts and is one that I employ often when having to prepare and teach a lesson.  I love to learn and be a part of a classroom discussion.  I know these things about myself, but during the throws of comparing myself with someone else's abilities I can lose sight of this.  I knew I was battling a fight that was bigger than myself, so I turned to my Father in Heaven in a prayer of supplication to help me see the good in myself and my abilities.  My Father has never once let me down, and I began to immediately feel, hear, and see what my Father wanted me to see about myself.  Through His Spirit, I knew I was loved and valued and that I have gifts to offer the world.  My Father knows that deep within my soul is a true desire to serve others and to be the best person I can be. I know that he has put opportunities in my path to discover this about myself.  Three years ago, I never even THOUGHT of getting my CNA license and to seek employment at an assisted living establishment. On a whim, I joined my daughter in taking a CNA course, followed by stepping into the unknown world of seeking a job in the health industry.  I've been surprised to find myself still working as a CNA and LOVING it.  When I look back at the turbulence of my life these past few years, I've realized that this work of caring for others has saved me.  It has allowed me to develop love and compassion, patience and unconditional love for others.  I have held the hands of countless residence, talked with them, and washed and prepared their bodies after they have passed.  It is a sacred work and an honor. And an answered prayer.