Living in America

My friend made a statement from the pulpit recently that caused me to chuckle and feel a bit convicted at nearly the same time. He spoke about a family that was enduring a very difficult situation, and that no matter what the outcome, we were instructed to consider it pure joy when facing trials. He said that many of us say we have joy in our heart, but some of us forget to tell our face and our attitude. Ouch — guilty.My daughter’s friend recently returned from a mission trip that took her to remote areas in three countries over a nine-month period. She shared her personal experiences such as contracting typhoid fever, showering in public view, and sleeping with the animals in the fields. Of course, our family has participated in many mission trips over the years, but we did not truly assimilate into each country’s culture. While our sleeping arrangements were not a five-star hotel, we always had plenty to eat and never really felt threatened. Each time we returned, we resolved to remain grateful for living in this incredible country. But over time, the impact of the mission trip always seemed to wane.

Since my friend’s comments from the pulpit, I have made a conscious effort to keep everything in perspective. Each morning, I review my calendar on my smart phone to refresh my memory of upcoming appointments. I enjoy a nice hot shower, apply personal hygiene items, and head out the door with a cup of hot coffee. While I sit in traffic on 575 heading south, my radio is playing my favorite tune, the AC is set to a nice temperature, and my hot coffee is in my Yeti.

Let us contrast my morning with that of folks in Third World countries. They wake up outside to the elements and do not have hot showers waiting for them. The breakfast they may enjoy could be leftovers from the previous day if they are fortunate enough to even have food for that meal. The temperatures may be cool in the morning, but by midday, they could be working the fields in 100-plus degrees. As for that car or truck they may desire, that is just a dream. With an average income of just over $5 a day, it would take them a lifetime to pay for what we drive to work/school/other activities each morning.

The next time I am stopped in traffic, standing in line at a fast food restaurant, or frustrated with the TSA line, I promise to smile and allow the joy of living in America to shine through.