Counting your blessings

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My car broke down yesterday, and after the first moments of confusion and panic I thought, "I am so fortunate."

 This is why I felt that way:

 It happened in the parking lot of a grocery store less than two miles from my home, meaning I could have walked home if I needed to. I didn't have a trunk full of melting ice cream since I hadn't gone grocery shopping. I'd finished all my appointments for the day. The dog had been walked within the past two hours and could wait a little longer at home. I didn't have a dog or kids in the car. It was a stunningly beautiful day, perfect for hanging around for the tow truck. I had a book with me and I was next to a used book store. I have a AAA app on my phone to call a tow truck. I can afford a yearly membership to AAA. I had a bottle of water with me. 

 Most importantly, I knew if my car needed a new starter (the most likely scenario based on the sounds it wasn't making) I could pay for it. I wasn't one car repair away from destitution like so many other people.

 I have enough to eat each day, I have a house with running water and a utility bill I can pay each month, I have a loving family and a darling dog and a successful career as a romance novelist.

So while I waited for the tow truck and for my husband to arrive and drive me home (another blessing--his office is six blocks from the parking lot where I was standing), I took a moment to pause during this season of giving and receiving, and reflect on how much I've received in my life, and how much more I can do to give back.

 I hope all of my readers, potential readers, and everyone else out there who glances at my social media and blog posts has a season of fulfillment, of hope, of blessings, and of light during a dark time of year.*

 Happy Holidays to all!

 Darlene Marshall



*Except for my Aussie/Kiwi friends and readers who get to have lots of sunshine, short nights and a nice day at the beach.

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