Where did today go? Whether we are knee-deep in classes or on break, it seems that time skips gaily by while I am left in the dust wondering where it went so quickly.
Today I promised part II of my list of blessings, so without further ado, I shall continue. [Sidenote: yes, I have been reading poetry. Why do you ask?]
my books don’t quite fit on my bookshelf…
12. Literature
Books, books, books. What is the best book you have ready lately? What is the last book you read? I have been an avid bibilophile since I was little and scared myself silly reading too many Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys books. I used to get in trouble for reading when I wasn’t supposed to. (Yeah, figure that one out.) Literature has provided me with entertainment, friends, profound emotional experiences, a greater understanding of the world, a better perspective of the human condition, and a basis for my understanding of God. Though I am not the most talented writer in the world, I have a sincere respect and appreciation for those that are blessed with a such a talent. And I am truly, deeply grateful for the gift of words.
13. Home
Charleston: home sweet home
Home is where the heart is. Home can be anywhere, and is anywhere. Some once tried to tell me that I couldn’t be homesick for Scotland because it was never home–I respectfully disagree. I believe that home is anywhere where there is a piece of your heart; though I only spent 4.5 months there, it was enough time for my heart to grow some and leave a piece behind. Of course, home is definitely wherever my family is, too.
I am getting ready to graduate and go to grad school, though I’m still not sure where yet. I literally have no idea where I will be in 6 months. But I am so fortunate to have places to call home. And I am excited to see where else God will let me call home!
14. Friends
I am blessed to have friends all over the world, even though I don’t get to see many of them very often. Friends amuse, encourage, love, provide companionship, and help you learn valuable life lessons. True friends are hard to come by, and quality is definitely more important than quantity. Who cares how many Facebook friends or Twitter followers you have? I am grateful for those who know the real me–good points and flaws together–and love me regardless.
Holly decided to surprise me…
my wonderful friend Sarah from St Andrews! she’s working in DC now.
15. Health
Not much explanation is needed here. Though I would/will praise God no matter what, I am grateful for the health that I have enjoyed thus far in my life.
16. Hope
Hope allows me to dream. Hope gives me something to smile about on the worst days. Hope has guided me through darkness. The capacity for hope is something which separates us from the rest of God’s creation, something which beats pessimism and cynicism. I hope for a lot of things, and it gives me direction and goals. Hope shapes our lives in so many ways.
17. Forgiveness
Christ died for me on the cross. What else needs to be said? But there IS so much to say. I mess up daily, hourly. I am the queen of making mistakes. God’s forgiveness is one of the single greatest blessings I have known; and I truly appreciate forgiveness from friends, family, and foes alike. I am grateful for the capacity to forgive others, and how I learn and grow through that process. I am sp blessed that forgiveness affords me opportunities for new beginnings.
18. Oxygen
Breathing is, well, necessary for survival. I am blessed to have every breath that God has allowed me in my life.
I came across this gem while exploring St Andrews
19. Nature
Speaking of life…how incredible is the world in which we live?! We get our food, the components of our clothes and houses, and so much of our inspiration from the natural world. From the daffodils blooming everywhere right now to the mountains to the vast ocean, and everything in between, I consider the earth to be a blessing from God. Though it’s easy to take it for granted, I appreciate any opportunity to be out in the fresh air soaking up the sun. Or being rained on. Snow is great, too. I’m not really picky. And sunsets are often known to stop me in my tracks. God is truly the greatest artist!
speaking of daffodils: I took this photo outside of my dorm in St Andrews last spring.
20. Peace
The more I hear about the war and unrest and fighting in other areas of the world, the more I feel blessed to live in such peace and stability. (Governmental disagreements aside.) Yes, crime happens. Yes, We have been victim of terrorist attacks. But compared to countless millions who live in constant fear for their lives, I am so blessed to sleep each night feeling safe.
21. Children
How can the sight or sound of a young child–especially a baby–not make you smile? Children represent imagination, innocence, hope, joy, love. I hope to be a mother some day, and for now I cherish any opportunity I have to spend with kids. Every child is truly a gift from God!
22. Emotions–all of them
happiness. [photo by Mayank Kapadia]
23. (one to grow on) YOU!
Whether I know you personally or not, I know that God made you with care and that He has a great purpose for your life. I consider it an honor and a blessing to share this world with you, and to be able to share pieces of my life with you.
In Christ,
Christine
Erskine College 
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