Hello,
It is true that even in the Garden, before man sinned, he could not do everything; but he could still do all he desired to do, since he had no desire to do what he could not do. It is different now.
— St. Augustine [1]
I often overlook the blessings in my life because of a relentless focus on what I have not yet achieved. Or, put another way, I am not satisfied with the good things already in my life because other good things remain just out of reach. I ignore the success already achieved. I take my health for granted. I become preoccupied with public personalities.
But, when I consider that my life is constrained by the possibilities afforded by my creator, a gratefulness for my circumstances can grow. I am chosen to wear this face, be this gender and live in these times. I am a man of Northern European heritage, living in the United States, working as a Software Engineer, supporting three young children and supported in turn by my family and friends.
When I let go of the good things I want, but which I lack any power to achieve, the goodness of my life becomes apparent. Each detail, initially perceived as a list of facts (age, ethnicity, etc.), is transformed into a litany of blessings. An authentic happiness develops and my heart is filled with joy, peace and, dare I say, a “paradise”.
— Mitch
- “City of God” Book 14, Chapter 15 — St. Augustine of Hippo