MIKE McCORMICK As I was placing my frozen waffle in the toaster one morning this week, I was wondering what my work day might bring. I knew it would be a long Tuesday because it was the day of the runoff elections.
I started early that morning as I normally do. I had quite a bit of ahead of me to finish writing, like this column, before election results would come in that evening.
It’s a crazy, uncertain world we live in these days.
It’s easy to get caught up in our everyday surroundings.
If we lose our focus, and I’m certain I’m not the only one who does that, we can begin to have a negative outlook on life.
Dealing with life on life’s terms isn’t always easy. There are always difficulties and challenges before us. That’s just part of living.
With that, as I was working on stories and this column, I started jotting down why I always should be grateful even though I don’t feel that way sometimes.
Gratitude escapes me when it shouldn’t it seems.
I have a Lord I can trust and have faith in to lead and direct all my thoughts and actions each day if I will just remember to let Him.
He only wants what is best for me, my family and all the people around me. He is a trusting and loving Lord. I believe He wants only the best for everyone in this world.
My wife Pat is the best thing that ever happened to me. I fail to tell her that often enough. We’ve been married for more than 44 years.
Our daughter Meghan has grown up to be the beautiful young woman and the good mother that she is today. She is truly a blessing.
Her husband, Terry, is a great young man who works hard and is a good father.
Their son and our grandson Liam, who will be 4 in a few days, is the sparkle of our lives.
My mother-in-law Ruth is an incredible woman.
I’m grateful for the parents I had who provided me with everything I ever needed. They drilled into me the difference between right and wrong.
I was so fortunate to know all my grandparents and have them around well into my adult life. My grandfather Doc had a profound influence on me and I wish he was still with us today.
My sister and I are still close today. Her husband, Randy, is a good man and they have two daughters, one of whom is married and has a husband and they have a son. The other is a young woman who is career-oriented and I understand has become attached.
Pat and I are blessed to have great friends.
If we all just stay focused, the blessings in our lives will continue to come our way.
Staff Column