Venting

I often hear people say "You know what's wrong with our society?", and then continue to give their (usually unasked) opinion. Sorry to say, I've become one of those people. But some days I read headlines and articles, hear people talk, and see things on television that just make me want to scream and say "Can't you see this is not a good idea????" And since this is MY blog, I can vent as I please - haha!

My recent observation and frustration is something I easily fall into as well. And it is an attitude of entitlement. It is easy for me to feel that I deserve something or am entitled to something. And it makes me feel like a selfish, ugly, terrible person when I see that in myself. I also feel that way when I see it in others. It brings out the worst in people, and it brings out the worst in me.

There is nothing uglier than a child who feels entitled to several grand birthday and Christmas gifts, and expects nothing less. And not even a child, sometimes you see it in adults! Again, I'm not pointing fingers because I absolutely catch myself having that mindset too. I really do think it's our society. This is what is constantly advertised and shown - that a person is entitled to a larger than needed house (children having to share a bedroom, or a wife and husband having to share a bathroom sink? - *gasp* how awful!), a grand vacation every year, college paid for, a high-paying job with minimal work hours, new cars (including one for each of the children at the age of 15), the most fashionable clothing, and over-the-top holiday gifts and celebrations. Oh, and if you experience an injustice in any way, sue the person who caused it (yes, McDonalds, it's your fault that I'm overweight)!

Over the last few years, I really have worked to maintain a thankful heart at all times, for all things. I don't think there is any better remedy for the greed. I understand that ALL good gifts come from the Lord, and not because we deserve them. Do we really want God to give us what we 'deserve'? I don't! Because I certainly don't deserve all the blessings I have in my life - they are purely from a merciful and gracious Father.

As I think about having children, how is that something you can instill in them? How do you resist the temptation to spoil them rotten when you love them so much? I am terrified to have rude, spoiled, ungrateful children, who believe they are entitled to so much. How do we teach them to work hard, and to be grateful for even the smallest things, and to be a gracious person? To share what God has blessed them with and not expect anything in return? My husband is one of the most generous and humble people I have ever met. I think he would give our house away to someone if I let him! He is wonderful and I pray our children are like him.

In hopes that I can make our society a better place, I will continue to ask the Lord to give me a generous and thankful heart, and know that all we have is so much more than we deserve, and pray we can teach our children the same.