Time to Count My Easter Blessings

Easter is a religious holiday celebrated by Christians worldwide. It has become a sign of spring, a day to be with family, and a day of tradition. Many children relate Easter to baskets, bunnies and egg hunts, but the real reason for Easter is Christ’s death, resurrection and ascension into Heaven.

In the 40 days prior to Easter many people repent for their sins by giving up something that they enjoy such as chocolate, or soda. While we do not follow that tradition, this time of year I do think about all that I have to be thankful for, and what sacrifices have been made for me.

This year I am particularly happy that the Easter bunny will be bringing an extra basket for little Sammy. We have waited a long time for a baby brother, and he has finally arrived. I am looking forward to discovering the magic of holidays with him all over again.

I am grateful for my home, and for my family. Do I have a mansion or a million dollars? No, I don’t. Nonetheless, I feel my life is rich and full because I have my loved ones and we have our health. We sleep in warm cozy beds every night, which is a blessing.

While I’m not particularly happy about our recent return to winter temperatures, I can say I am grateful for the fact that no one I love has been injured by tornadoes, flood, hurricanes, fires, earthquakes or tsunamis this year. Not all families can say that. Many have been affected by natural disasters that are beyond their control and are still suffering from cold, hunger and thirst in the absence of clean water, food and shelter.

After a brief period of clouds and rain, I can see green grass, buds on the trees, and flowers starting to bloom when I look out my window. Instead of complaining that it is not warm enough this weekend, I am going to focus on the fact that we have not suffered from any natural disasters, and pray for those who have been affected by all of the recent storms.

This Easter I am also grateful for all of the sacrifices that our United States military make in order for us to enjoy our safety and freedom. This is our second Easter without my sister, who is currently serving in the Air Force to keep our country safe.

So this weekend, instead of feeling rushed or overwhelmed by a “to-do” list, I am going to enjoy the multiple Easter egg hunts. I am going to take pictures of my children in their Easter best, eat chocolate bunnies with them and laugh when they smear chocolate on their sweet faces. I’m going to watch their surprise when they see what the Easter bunny left them, and enjoy their innocence for just a bit longer. I will enjoy making treats, traveling to see family, and spending quality time together. Because when God sacrificed His only son to save the world, I think He meant for us to enjoy this world with our loved ones, and cherish the treasures we all have in our lives.