Good Day

 These last few days have been difficult here in Israel. A mother was shot in the stomach by a terrorist, and her baby delivered. The baby subsequently died (on Wednesday). Then several soldiers were murdered, again by terrorism. One of them known to my son-in-law.

It is hard, in the face of pain as great as what I felt yesterday, to accept the positive gifts, the presents that I received. 

It is a strange kind of striving to force yourself to see good. 

Yet I did. 

I expressed gratitude for the gift of cinnamon tea. I love the sweet, spicy, slightly sour taste of it. It warms me up and makes me feel comforted. My physical aspect, the most basic of our aspects, was given a hug. 

I expressed gratitude for the gift of warm slippers, to keep my feet cozy when the floors are cold. 

I expressed gratitude for my sons healthy marriage. He and his bride have been married for 10 years as of yesterday. They have given me three of my four grandchildren. My emotional side is gratified as is my spiritual side, knowing that G-d has continued our line.

It was a struggle, though I had success. If you ever fail to have success in finding three presents, if there is a day where it is impossible to find even one gift, than give yourself those gifts. Turn on some music you like, eat a treat, rub cream into your hand, and concentrate on the sensations and feelings. 

And that is what I ask of you today. Write down three things as they occur during the day that are presents, but at least one present, give to yourself. Don't let it simply fall into your hand. Treat yourself.