Proud (and blessed!) to be an American

You may sometimes take for granted that you live in America. I hope this posts enlightens you at least a little bit, and perhaps causes you to think a little more carefully of the things you say or think about the country in which you live. 

Riots broke out during the elections in Kenya five years ago. One student, George, who I have had the opportunity to talk to, has told me of his family losing everything due to this unexpected outbreak. Houses were burned down, people were shot, and an unbelievable amount of damage was left behind even after the riots calmed. Since then, a new constitution has been written and fingers has been crossed as Kenyans approach their 2013 election with new hopes. Debates have been scheduled and campaigns are being launched in an effort to get through this election in a civilized manner. We won't know, however, how calmly (or how violently) this presidential election will be until March 4, 2013 and that makes people nervous. 

At home, Obama has just been re-elected as President of the United States of America. I know some of you are overjoyed at this news and some of you are disappointed and concerned. However you're feeling, I implore you to remember how blessed you are to live where you live. You can put Republican or Democratic signs up in your yard, bumper stickers on your car, and you don't have to worry about being attacked or shot. I know that America is in a tough place right now, and I know the future is uncertain. But what is certain is that America is mature and has a system and a constitution that has lasted for centuries. Remember that not all countries can say that, as much as they all want to. America is looked up to. All the kids here are enthralled by the idea of living in America and we need to realize that whoever is running our country, he is running a blessed one. 

Basically all I'm saying is be GRATEFUL. I've seen rants and complaints and confusion and anger and I encourage you to take a step back and thank the Lord that you have (more than) enough food to eat and (more than) enough reason to feel blessed rather than disappointed. Praise the Lord for what you have, for it is not out of His power to take it away. 

keep in mind:
"The Lord gave and the Lord took away. May the name of the Lord be BLESSED." [Job 1:21]

love christie