Monday, January 02, 2012

It's a Wonderful Life

Cliff and I were in the middle of our almost-daily walk in the pasture the other day and, as people tend to do this time of year, we began to reminisce.  Cliff brought up the fact that we've lived paycheck to paycheck all our lives and how, when we were younger, any purchase we made was a big deal.  
At least half the time while we were raising our two kids, we had no health insurance; our good health through those times was nothing short of miraculous.  The only major hospitalization episode I recall from back then was our son's broken leg, which kept him in the hospital, in traction, for a month.  Cliff's boss at the butcher shop paid the hospital bill out of his own pocket.
   
Please notice that I don't use the word "poor" when I talk about the old days.  Much poverty is brought about by people labeling themselves "poor".  If you say something often enough, you'll start to believe it.  I also try to avoid the words "can't afford".  There are more positive ways to say things, and I try to use words that don't beat me down.  
But I digress.   


Cliff was talking about our lack of funds through the years, and I said, "Yeah, but we were having fun, weren't we?"  
He agreed.  He mentioned buying the first brand new vehicle of his life, and the thrill of moving to our own little farm.  We had twenty acres and a couple of cows.  Every day was an adventure.  Cliff learned how to build a pole barn; I learned how to raise baby calves and lambs.  I gardened and canned the produce, and felt so self-sufficient.  Our kids were funny and cute.  Life was exciting.  
Cliff, smiling, said something about how proud he was to buy his first tractor, a little Ford 8N, and I quoted a line from my favorite movie:  "You see, George, you've really had a wonderful life."  
We laughed together, remembering all the good times.  I often tell Cliff that we've had more of the things we wanted out of life than most millionaires.  As I sit here, I can't think of a single thing I want that I don't have.      
And here's the great thing:  Life is still good.  Sure, we have some aches and pains.  We have our physical limitations.  We tire easily.  But we still have fun.  There are things to laugh about every day, and so much to be thankful for.  We have plenty to eat and a roof over our heads.  
Now, I could ruin this moment by thinking about all the trials of old age that might be waiting around the corner, but what good would it do?  Why worry about things we can't change?  
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.  Today's trouble is enough for today."  Matthew 6:34
Thankfully, for today, my troubles are few and my blessings are many.

13 comments:

  1. Anonymous7:37 AM

    Donna, Praise the Lord! I feel like you on this one. Blessed in Missouri, Karen

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  2. I'm still here. All of my bits are still attached. Still writing, living, loving and laughing.

    Life is good.

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  3. You do live a wonderful life. I've always thought that the best things in life money cannot buy anyway. Some have lots of money and are not happy at all. Today is a wonderful day and you won't here me complaining either, It's a blessing to be content with what you have. Have a great Monday!

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  4. I have often wondered how our life might be if we DID have money. I do believe we would be missing out on a lot rather than gaining much of anything (other than stuff).

    Thanks for sharing. Blessings to you and yours in the new year.

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  5. Here-Hear!
    We do a lot of remin...what you said.
    Our lives through all the trials and tribulations a three ring circus. The engagement ring! The wedding ring!! And, the suffering!!!
    Would I do it again? You betcha! There's no price tag on loven and happiness. The best is when they's intertwined.
    Happy New Year

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  6. Very good entry. Helen

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  7. Life is what you make of it! If you think you are miserable you will be miserable, with or without money! If you think you are blessed you will be!

    Inga

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  8. Truly a Wonderful Life indeed!

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  9. Lindie3:12 PM

    What a nice conversation you two had. Even with my sad times, I feel blessed. Wonderful friends and family. If I had millions I would give it all up for any of them.

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  10. Great entry! And yes. Don't worry about the future...those worries that are at present are big enough. Fun to remember the past and OH HOW fast time flies.

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  11. I think having lots of money would complicate life. Simple pleasures can't be bought, yet they bring so much joy, don't they? It is so wonderful that you and Cliff can walk and talk like that. I understand exactly what you mean about really not wanting for a thing and being happy. The quote from Matthew, rings so true. Wise words for a new year.

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  12. A nice entry. Some of the best times of my life was after my husband mel had a bad stroke at age 45 when we used to walk 45 minutes every night. We walked no matter how hot or cold to try to get his health back and some of our best conversations were then.

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  13. I so enjoyed reading your blog today. Money does not buy happiness, and I think we all agree on that. In my opinion the simple life has, and still is the best kind. I hope you, and Cliff have a Happy New Year!
    Hugs,
    Pat

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