Being in Africa has made me realize that I've taken so
many things for granted, living in the U.S.A.
Take electric pencil
sharpeners for example.
Such an obscure item, not miraculous or anything like
that.
The other day, I would've given just about anything to
get one of these.
Why?
Because there were like 200 colored pencils with tips so
dull or broken that the children couldn't use them anymore, so with a
small, very basic pencil sharpener, I set about sharpening all of
them.
After only 30 had been sharpened, a blister appeared on
my middle finger; pathetic, right?
Yeah, I thought so too.
200 couldn't seem further away.
An electric pencil sharpener.
Now that's a great invention. :)
Here's a list of some other things that I've taken for granted:
- Fluffy carpet
- Fountain soda
- Speaking the same language
- No potholes (or at least smaller ones)
- Ice cubes
- Air conditioning
- Personal space
- Being able to walk somewhere alone
- Clear, cold, good-tasting, floatie-free water
- An abundance of fruits and veggies, easy to find
- Free bathrooms with toilet paper
- Hot showers
- Comfortable furniture
I could probably add more to the list, but I think you get the picture. In America, we are surrounded with luxuries that are normal to have, but I don't need them. Yeah, there are plenty of times where I find myself looking forward to having them again in May, but I don't really need them to live. God is showing me how to be content in every situation in which He places me, by relying on His strength and his grace.
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me.
~ Philippians 4:11-13
