MINISTERS MUSINGS

JUNE 2006 MUSING

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS

It is said that an optimist is one who sees a glass as half full and a pessimist one who sees it as half empty. This is the difference between positive and negative thinking. There is a lot to be thankful for but there is also a lot of negative thinking around. An old hymn exhorts us to count our blessings and even to name them one by one. As a community we have much to be thankful for, and it is worth naming a few blessings.

The first thing surely is the wonderful countryside which surrounds the villages. Those rolling hills, splendid trees, floral, leafy lanes, stone built cottages and farms are a joy. Then there are all those who give freely of their time to such as the parish council, village hall committee, neighbourhood watch and the like, who help to maintain the social fabric of the community. There are our children, a blessing indeed; and how great to have such a super school in the village. When I visit I never fail to be impressed by the happy atmosphere, the creative displays, the standard of teaching and care for the children, and the warm welcome from staff and pupils alike. So a big thank you to Carol and her splendid team.

Finally, where would we be without our surgery. We are fortunate to have such good medical facilities in our midst and such a great band of medics and supporting staff. They even do home visits, an increasingly rare service in many areas! A big thank you to Dr Jo and her supporting team. Where would we be without you. These are just a few of our communal blessings, but how about personal blessings known only to you. Try counting and giving thanks for them.

‘Name your blessings. Count them one by one;

And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.’