I Have Been Given Much (81-90)

“To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us - and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him.
Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God. For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience. And that is what makes all the difference.”
Thomas Merton

10 things about the gospel I am grateful for.

• Forgiveness

Because I need it every day.

• Loving Heavenly Parents 

I can think of nothing better than knowing they are watching over and guiding me to happiness.

•  Agency

I have a choice no matter what.

• Promptings - The Holy Ghost

Many, many times I have been blessed because of a prompting.  I'm grateful for the gift of the Holy Ghost who gives me these promptings.

• A Savior and the Infinite Atonement

He suffered all so that he could succor me individually.  He has suffered my pain and He knows how I feel.   He was perfect and yet He suffered for all my imperfections, He gave me a rebellious and imperfect soul a way to return to my Heavenly Parents.

• Forever Families

Dysfunctional as any family can be I don't want to be anywhere where I can't be together with the people I love most for forever.

• Brother and Sisterhood

I love the principle that we are all brothers and sisters.  It helps me to try a little harder to understand and love people I'd rather not.  It helps me to remember to move past a wrong first impression and really get to know people.

• The Power of the Priesthood

 I think it's amazing that worthy men have the power of God in them to command, to bless and give comfort.

• Prayer

While I certainly could work on the proper etiquette of prayer, I'm hardly ever not praying.  I'm grateful to have some one there to listen and to answer my prayers. 

• Blessings

There's something very powerful about Priesthood Blessings.  From the healing of the sick to the healing of a broken heart, my heart is always happy when God talks straight to me.  My patriarchal blessing is also something I cherish, it helps me remember God's specific plan for me.