Sometimes it is so difficult to live in "the moment". At times throughout my life, distractions, dreams, planning, worry, etc. have drawn my attention away from the beautiful things taking place in my life. Hopes for the future have distracted my attention away from the already fulfilled hopes and dreams of today. I firmly believe goals are necessary, however, not at the cost of loosing sight of our present blessings. Sometimes i don't think we even realize what is happening, all we are aware of is that somehow our joy is missing. An example of this kind of situation: A person wants so desperately to get married. Instead of enjoying the life they have, a life filled with friends, a career, freedom, ministry opportunities, they are consumed with the dream and desire to become married. Marriage in and of itself is not bad, however, when that dream becomes our main focus, we can become incontinent in our present situation, missing out on the blessings God has for us currently. I have noticed this taking place in my own life at times regarding having a family. I want so badly to experience pregnancy, motherhood, and parenting. sometimes i miss the blessings of today. I have a wonderful husband, more than adequate time to build my relationship with God, family, friends etc. Nick and I together have the time to dive into ministry. We even have the opportunity to serve in short term missions if we plan properly. Sometimes when we become distracted by what we think is missing in our lives, we become less thankful, less content, resulting in a loss of joy and an ineffectiveness for God! Today I strive to see all God has richly blessed me with. I want to seize each moment to be used by Him. I do not want to approach a ripe age, looking back and see only missed opportunities and wasted time. I want to approach the throne of Grace hearing, well done my good and faithful servent!