To the editor:
I complained that the path of my life was not always smooth, that there were difficulties and obstacles along the way that made the journey through life tough . . . Then I remembered that there are people out there who had no feet and could never even make a journey . . . and I felt ashamed!
I complained that the things that I asked for were not always given to me, that I could not be understood when I spoke, or even heard . . . Then I remembered that there are people out there who were born mute and will never be heard by anyone . . . and I felt ashamed!
I complained because my job required that I get up way too early, drive far too long to get there and then get back home, and work too many long hours. Then I remembered that there are people out there who have no job at all . . . and I felt ashamed!
I complained that I wasn’t wealthy, that I did not live in a mansion, have a chauffeur-driven limousine, own a beautiful yacht, a home on a tropical island, my own airplane. Everything I ever made went to provide for my children . . . then I remembered the thousands of people who will never experience the thrill of holding a child, your own child in your arms, the most wonderful gift from God that you will treasure more then anything you could ever imagine . . . and I felt ashamed!
And then I stopped complaining and got on my knees and thanked God for everything he had so generously given me. First off, my life and my health. My wonderful and understanding wife. My children and grandchildren, the real treasures of my life. My friends. The warm and loving community we live in. The house that we have made into a home that provides shelter and comfort for our family. Our Catholic faith community, which truly is “the place where love is spoken.”
Honestly, I really have no complaints at all. I am too much in awe of all the wonderful gifts that God has blessed me with. I have strength in the knowledge that no matter how difficult things might seem, it could be a lot worse then it is!
So, the next time you feel like complaining . . . stop and think . . . and get on your knees and thank God for everything you’re complaining about.
Frank Zawlocki, director of stewardship and development at St. Cecilia Parish, Wisconsin Dells