Weekly Gratitude List

I want to begin this gratitude list with a poem that I came across. It was written by a Confederate solider and it reflects a truly humble heart. As I was reading it I could picture this young soldier huddled in a ditch somewhere, dirty and broken from war. It really moved me. Although, unlike the author of this poem, I have been given many things that I have prayed for and I am fortunate, this is the type of perspective I'd like to keep. I think that having a mindset of gratitude will make me humble and hopeful throughout life.

I Asked

I asked for strength that I might achieve;

I was made weak that I might learn to obey.

I asked for health that I might do greater things;

I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy;

I was given poverty that I might be wise.

I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;

I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;

I was given life that I might enjoy all things.

 I got nothing that I had asked for,

but everything that I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered;

I am, among all men, most richly blessed.

-poem found on the body of a Confederate Soldier recovered in Devil's Den after the Battle of Gettysburg

-Photo by Jim Lowney

This week I am thankful for:


1. a wonderful family
2. being blessed with all that I need plus more
3. fall
5. fresh pumpkin pie


What are you thankful for? Send me a comment.