A lesson..

The morning I left Georgia to go back home, I was in a terrible mood. 

Super agitated with everything and everyone. 

Maybe it was because I was rushing to get everything packed for the airport. 

Maybe it was because it was my last day of vacation and I had to go back to work the next day. 

Maybe it was because I was saying goodbye to my family that I wouldn't see for a long time. 

Who knows. 

But I’m sure I was not very pleasant to be around.

I got to the airport and was waiting in the security line, sour face and mood intact. 

Then I saw this woman a few feet ahead of me. 

She had a US Army backpack on. 

I looked at her face and could see her fighting back tears. 

When a few slid down her face, she quickly wiped them away as if she was trying so hard to not have anyone see her break down. 

I immediately had a wave of sadness for her, quickly followed by a wave of guilt. 

Here is this woman, who seemed to be having a rough time herself. 

I don’t know what her story is and I don’t know why she was sad. 

But it made me feel dumb for ruining my morning over nothing. 

I didn’t even have anything to be upset about. 

But I chose to be anyway, when I should have just been grateful; 

I have a family that I was able to be with during the holidays when so many others can’t. 

I have a job to go to following a generous vacation period when others are stressing over when they can even afford their next meal. 

I have a wonderful boyfriend to go home to and loving friends to welcome me back when I’m sure there are plenty who feel very alone and in much need of a friendly face nearby.

I experienced a big wave of humility standing there in that security line. 

I was once again reminded to be thankful for the big and small things. 

For all I knew, my plane could have crashed on my way back and it would all have ended. 

Not to be morbid or anything, but it’s true. 

What a waste of a morning to go out on, am I right?

I am constantly being reminded to embrace my present and surroundings. 

No matter what my troubles are, there are always things to be thankful for and not take for granted.

Now if only I could remember that the next time I’m getting flustered over small, stupid things…

xoxo