The questions…
What is it that gives a family hope? How do a husband and wife bind together to face adversary in these economic times? What can a parent do to keep their children joyful when they are forced to go without the luxury items that all their friends have?
The woman…
These questions rang through my mind last evening when I had the distinct pleasure of meeting a remarkable woman who has held her family together and prospered even though her husband was out of work for over a year. Even more amazing is that she didn’t know that others could be inspired by her success and poise of how to handle adversity during an economic catastrophe.
The story…
I quietly listened as she began her tale that started when her husband, the sole financial provider for the family, was laid off from his position. I heard the underlining stress in her voice when she spoke of how the at home jewelry shows sales along with the meager unemployment stipend kept the family fed and housed. I saw the stress lines embedded in her brow when she spoke of the family car that her husband was using to search for a job stopped working. I felt the emotion of enduring love when she spoke of caring for her children and how her and her husband had switched primary caregiver roles. I reveled in the proclamation that her husband’s persistent and painstaking search had been fruitful and he had found a position and would be starting his new job soon.
The conversation…
At the end of her story we spent a few moments talking about what matters. How the smile from her children brightened her day, how she no longer takes things for granted and how she is thankful for the family and friends she has in her life.
I noted that it was nice to see her appreciate the small blessings she received everyday. How it was wonderful that her husband had after a year of searching found a position and that her family seemed to be stronger for surviving the ordeal. How I was in awe of the courage and composure she maintained during the difficult circumstances that had taken place and was amazed that she still found time to volunteer to help others in the community.
The surprise…
Looking at her face I witnessed the transformation from revelation, consideration to realization and knew instantly that she had never thought about the situation in this manner.
The small blessings…
I knew that today I had listened, sympathized and helped another person who then realized they were more than the trials that they endured each day. That each day we receive small blessings that help us become better people and appreciate those in our lives. Today I am thankful that I met her and that she was one of my small blessings.
