“But a single woman, of good fortune, is always respectable, and may be as sensible and pleasant as anyone else.” –Emma by Jane Austen
I don’t agree with everything snobbish Emma Woodhouse says, but I love this quote of hers. I will interpret “of good fortune” in my own way, however. Goodness knows it doesn’t fit me in a monetary sense!
But in other ways, I am a girl of good fortune.
Often I need reminding. Ann Voskamp, in her book One Thousands Gifts, tells how she began a gratitude journal on a dare to list one thousand gifts, and how that plays into how to live a life of eucharisteo–a life filled with grace, thanksgiving, and joy regardless of what’s going on around you.
Sounds like a good life to me.
Psalm 116:7 says “Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you.” Remembering good things, even simple blessings like hearing a bird sing, can change my attitude.
Since I have a poor memory (especially when I’m unhappy), I’d better join Ann in writing things down. It can serve as proof of God’s blessings when I’m feeling down and be a kick toward rest and joy.
The twitter of birds thrills my soul, so I’m calling the things for which I’m grateful “birdsongs.” I plan to update the list every week or so. If you need inspiration for your own list, check out mine.
1. Grace. There’s nothing like being loved and wanted by Someone who really knows you and who has no reason other than His great love to even notice you.
2. Birdsong. The sight and sound of song birds just makes me happy.
3. Great roommates. It’s a wonderful thing to get to live with loving, kind, fun girls.
4. More coming on The Birdsong List page.
