This year my birthday just happened to fall on the Sabbath and I have been reminded at every turn just how very blessed I am. It began when I got to sleep in later than usual this morning because I didn't have to go to work. As usual, I started my day by spending some time alone with God. A time for prayer and for reading the Bible. A time for reflecting and giving thanks for the gift of one more day. And then the telephone rang.
It was a very nice Christian lady who came to the restaurant last month with her boyfriend/musical accompanist. I was their server and since then, I've been blessed with the opportunity to counsel them through some difficult times. They left Branson a couple weeks ago, but this morning she called for some encouragement. Fortunately the Holy Spirit gave me the right words and with Gods help, I was able to lift her spirits. My job at the restaurant has given me many such opportunities, and I am continually amazed and humbled at the honor of being allowed to make even a small difference in the lives of my brothers and sisters.
And now my birthday was looking even better! But what should I do next?
Considering the fact that the temperature "inside" my RV is 82 degrees right now, and it's nearly that outside... (not bad for November), I thought a nice swim in the 75 foot long indoor swimming pool (heated to the point of being almost tepid) and 30 minutes in the adjoining whirlpool would be a good way to spend the next hour or two.
And what a great idea that was! The indoor pool is surrounded by big windows and the sun shining through them causes the blue water to shimmer and sparkle as it moves. As I walked alongside the pool, heading for a lawn chair next to the hot tub, I was completely alone, and I could hear the soft echo of my flip-flops as I crossed the floor. There was country music playing in the background, but other than that... it was beautifully silent... and I rejoiced once again. Happy Birthday to me!
I spent an hour alternating between the hot tub and the pool before heading for the showers and back to my RV. And wouldn't you know it. Just when I thought the day couldn't possibly get any better... it did. It was Sunday... and two of my favorite football teams were playing on television. So there I was, sitting on a nice comfortable couch, cheering on my teams, when I realized I should probably eat something. (How did it get to be three in the afternoon already?) So I went to my refrigerator (my NEW one), and wouldn't you know it... I had so darn many choices I couldn't decide what to eat. I just had to stop right then and there and give thanks to the Lord. I am warm, dry, healthy, well-fed and happy. What a wonderful birthday this is!
Thank you God, for today... and for every single yesterday. I already have much more than I need in this life, so there's only ONE THING I want for my birthday; Please, Dear Lord, allow me to stand as an example of how "faith" brings peace and contentment. Let my joy put smiles on sad faces and hope in confused hearts, and please allow my love for YOU to warm the souls of all those I meet.
THAT is my birthday wish!
Abigayle
Picture: The indoor swimming pool
