Count Your Blessings...Literally

I just turned 30, a milestone in life that you're supposed to reflect on, I guess. You're not old, but getting older. You're not young, but getting older. You're not wise, but getting older.

Looking back, I'm not where I expected myself to be:

• The four-year-old me dared to be a policeman/astronaut/Mickey Mouse's best friend.
• The 14-year-old me dreamed of being an NBA superstar.
• The 24-year-old me prepared to be a TV sportscaster.

And in between, I always thought I'd do big things. You know the usual: getting married and have kids, become rich and famous, change the world, etc. I set these grand expectations on what my life was supposed to be. 

Now do I feel unaccomplished or unsatisfied for not reaching all of these goals? Not in the least bit (even though being Mickey Mouse's best friend would definitely have it's perks). I still feel like the most blessed man on the planet because I choose look at what I have...not what I don't have.

Sure, life could have taken us down another track and led us to some incredible things. But we're still alive and each breath is remarkable in itself. Those incredible things you've pictured in your mind could still be waiting...but for now, focus on what's here, what's now, where you've come from and count your blessings.

Each week, write down three things you are thankful for.

I took this "Thankful List" challenge on myself to not only document my content, but also to see progress. Putting pen to paper helps give me perspective, but you can do it via text message to yourself, on an app, on your computer, write it in stone if you want. Just clarify what makes you happy.

The list will probably start out broad: family, friends, God, maybe some material possessions. But once you get a few weeks in, trying not to repeat your answers, you might start elaborating and coming up with very specific ideas or moments.

Taking on the task itself can bring joy. You realize you have a lot more things to be grateful for than worries. Reading your thankful list after a long, stressful day can bring a much needed sigh of relief. The struggles of the moment aren't as bad when you look at the big picture.  

It's fascinating when I sit down every Sunday night to make my list and reflect back not only the past week, but also my past 30 years. The ups and downs, tears and laughter made me who I am today...a very thankful man who's happy to be right where he is today.

What are you thankful for?