privilege

A few weekends ago, I went for a walk to get coffee on a rainy day. To be honest, my real purpose was to go for a run, but the only way I could get out the door was to promise myself a stop at the coffee shop on the way home. As I walked home, sipping my latte, I suddenly felt very lucky...lucky to be here, walking in the rain, in my quiet neighborhood, with red and yellow leaves all around me.

And I've been thinking a lot lately about how it's a privilege to be in God's creation. We get to have moments like this when we feel like we're in the midst of something that not everyone gets to experience. In fact, I wondered where all my neighbors were that day (probably inside, staying dry)--but why would anyone want to miss this?

I've been cherishing the weekends during this season. They have been filled with fun fall things like a trip to the pumpkin patch, pizza and baseball games, and birthdays. There have been many great conversations, chilly walks in the neighborhood, and morning coffee with my husband.

In the past few months, babies have been born, friends (and my sister!) have gotten engaged. I smile when I think about all of the beautiful moments they will experience. I love this season of life, which is filled with the privilege of joining the people we love in their moments of joy.

After reading this post about "eternal perspective," I've also started viewing my job as a privilege. I get to teach children who desperately need good teachers. Daily, I am reminded that life doesn't revolve around me and my needs. There are things that are much more important.

At the same time, as Richard's post says, God doesn't need me--He is taking care of business all around the world, and would continue to take care of business, even if I weren't there. I get to be where I am, learning lessons of selflessness and service (and there are many many lessons to learn).

All of this represents a slightly different perspective than standing in awe of God's goodness and grace. It's a sense of gratitude that I've been allowed to take part in it all. I try to remember that none of these moments are made by man, but happen because God calls us to relationship--with Him and his creation, and with other people. Relationships, love, wonder, enjoyment, service--these are things that none of us can make ourselves--so we are privileged that God allows us to step in.

But the reality is that I often forget how lucky I am. I get caught up in my latest worry, fear, jealousy, or just plain crankiness. Responding to the truth that life is a privilege means recognizing worry as a waste of time, and jealousy as an indicator that I need to start counting my blessings...

So, in the spirit of gratitude, I'm going to join Rebekah and Kristen in photographing and posting photos of life's blessings this November. It is afterall, a month to give thanks, and a season to enjoy beauty and friendship. And really...why would anyone want to miss out on this? :)