December 16 | Friendship. How has a friend changed you or your perspective on the world this year? Was this change gradual, or a sudden burst? (Author: Martha Mihalick)How has a friend changed my perspective on the world this year? Again, so many different ways I could interpret this... but I'm going quite literal.
A good friend of mine has been struggling financially for the past couple of years. It has been tough on us, going from a time where we were able to visit with each other several times a year, to where even once a year is stretching the budget. We miss hanging out. Laughing. Scrapping. Just enjoying each other's company.
I tend to whine a lot about how difficult it has been to keep up with the bills, college tuition, loss in overall income because of increased costs of medical coverage, lack of raises, etc. It is crap that most of the world is facing. It stinks, but it isn't life threatening. It means cutting back, it means doing without some of our wants, but not any of our actual needs.
My friend, however, has been forced to file bankruptcy. She's had to inventory every single thing she and her family owns. There is a personal property "allowance" with bankruptcy... so everything over and above the meager allowance is subject to being taken and sold to satisfy creditors. She might lose her car... her furniture... her jewelry and clothing. There is also a "tools of the trade" allowance. She might lose some of her scrapbooking supplies... computer equipment... camera equipment... things she uses in her business to help support herself and her family. It is a scary prospect.
But she has met it all with such grace. Her attitude towards the whole process has been fabulous. She keeps reminding herself that they are just things and things can be replaced. She is grateful for her family and her health. Her attitude has changed the way I look at my own circumstances. And why I say repeatedly that I am really seeing just how much abundance I have in my own life. No matter how tough I may think things are, I now see clearly that there are so many others in the world who have it so much harder than me. My life is truly abundant.
5 comments:
Oh my gosh, your poor friend! She does indeed sound inspirational. I wish her all the best with this horrible situation xx
It certainly does make you count your blessings.
So glad you liked the card.
Cheri, what a beautiful post and great reminder not to take what we have for granted. My dear hubby's job ended in April and he has been job searching since that time (that's why our days are so laid back & calm right now, no schedule to keep), but I know there are many who are without jobs that are suffering. I try to remind myself daily that we are still able to take care of all our needs as we search for new employment.
Wow. That really puts things in perspective. I hope things get better for your friend soon.
What an inspirational post, Cheri! I'll be keeping your friend in my thoughts this holiday season. I've enjoyed catching up with all your Reverb posts.
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