Attitude of Gratitude

This week’s blog is going to be different than all the others. I had a really rough week but instead of dwelling on those negative things, I am going to make a list of all of the amazing blessings that I have been given in the past few months. I think the best cure for my attitude is gratitude.

I AM GRATEFUL FOR…

·         My family has been so supportive of my decision to come to Africa.

·         Technology is so amazing! I get to skype with my family every Sunday.

·         I love the funny faces that Dad and I make when we are on skype. He always knows how to make me laugh!

·         My wonderful Mom is always there to help me when I need someone to talk to.

·         Mid-week texts from Sandi make me so happy!

·         I am able to attend church on Sundays and renew my covenants through the sacrament.

·         There is a temple so close to me so I can attend regularly.

·         I am a part of the amazing LDSSA group here on campus! They have become my family and my best friends here.

·         I have been given an opportunity that most people don’t have, to come and study in another country and do research.

·         Many scholarship opportunities made it possible for me to be here without going into major debt.

·         I had an amazing job this last summer at West Ridge Academy where I not only earned and saved money for study abroad, but I was able to have a positive influence on teenagers.

·         I have a comfortable place to live during my time here where I feel safe.

·         I have amazing musicians as my instructors who take the time to help me learn more about African drumming and music.

·         I HAVEN’T BEEN SICK WITH MALARIA YET!!! (very grateful for this haha)

·         I also have been able to skype with my good friends Melissa, Jill, and Aubree. Good times catching up on life!

·         I am a part of the most amazing group of ISEP students! We are all there to support each other on this life-changing experience of study abroad.

·         Specifically, some amazing people who are there for me every day:

·         Kristen – One of my first friends in ISEP! I think we could talk to each other for an entire day and never run out of things to say!! She is such a hard worker and is always reaching to achieve her goals.

·         Annie – My swimming partner! She pushes me to be a better swimmer and to work harder. She is a good listener and is an amazing example of love for everyone she meets.

·         Brooke – She is one of the most open-minded individuals that I have met. She helps me to see the positive in every situation and recognize the growth that it taking place in my life.

·         Rose – A fellow musician who is an incredible percussionist! She has such passion for what she is doing and also understands the important areas of life outside of music.   

·         Ernest – A friend who is truly concerned for my well-being and happiness. He will come all the way to campus to bring me food and make sure that I am doing alright.

·         Portia – What an amazing guitar student and Twi teacher! She has been such a good friend to me and she gives the best hugs. She also has made me delicious Ghanaian food!

·         Bertelsen – He has taken the time to get to know me past the superficial level. I am able to be myself without fear of judgment as we get to know one another. He helps me to remember the importance of laughter and smiling!

·         Daniel – He has a laugh and smile that is contagious! I always feel so happy and lighthearted when we are talking and it makes my stress disappear.

·         Sheilla – She calls me on her way to Institute to make sure that I am awake and ready to go! She also makes me laugh and has a bright smiling face at 5am.

·         Doris – My dear sweet friend at the night market. She is always happy to see me and lets me sit inside her booth when it is hot outside!

And most importantly, I am grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ. He is my ultimate source of strength. He is there for me on days when I feel tired and discouraged. He is there for me when I feel complete happiness. He is there for me when I am confused and need direction. He is there to pick me up when I fall short. He is there to help me see my weaknesses and find the courage to do better. 

I AM TRULY BLESSED