Struck

So, as I am sure many of you know Sonia Sotomayor was named our newest Supreme Court Justice. I don't know much about her, and I know less about politics...but I did hear a portion of her acceptance speech.

At one point, she said "I am struck by the wonder of my life....."

Since hearing this sentence I have replayed it over and over in my head as to me it is an unbelievably positive attitude and a powerful statement to be able to say. I have been thinking, am I struck by the wonder of my life?....and after a lot of thought, I truly believe so.

I have been fortunate as my life has been touched by so many who have left me better off. I am blessed for having been given the opportunities that I have, and I have worked hard to grow from them. Following are a few reasons I consider myself lucky every day:

1) My children. Katelyn and Ashley. Each day holds a smile, or a giggle or a hug.
2) My wife. Kelly. The most confident and brilliant woman I know...and yet still depends on me for support. Is there a better compliment than to tell you you are needed by someone whom you respect and love more than anyone else?
3) I built a home. Buying a home is an accomplishment for anyone, and I am proud that we built ours
4) I have traveled the world. Okay, compared to some, I have not made a dent. But when I look at my life, and know that I have been to Norway, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Canada, and am heading to Brazil...I am thankful as there are so many who don't get to experience anywhere other than where they live.
5) My mom. If you know her....you like her. I have yet to meet someone who knows my mom who does not say good things about her. When I first started at Mosaic, I was known by some as Carol's son. For that I am proud.
6) Concerts. I have not seen many. But there are many who have seen none. To name a few, I have seen Garth Brooks, Dixie Chicks, Kid Rock, and Harry Connick Jr. All different, all exciting, and all enjoyed with friends or loved ones.
7) Friends. A person does not need a lot of friends to be happy, they need some quality friends. I am fortunate that I have a lot of quality friends. Proof of this is that there are too many to list. You know who you are, and thank you for being there for me in the past, present and future.
8) Humor. If you ever find yourself in a bad mood...think of a joke, or a story that will bring a smile to your face. If you can't think of that story...call me...I have a few good ones that I'd be happy to share.
9) Second chances. I have not led a perfect life. Thankfully, I have been surrounded by many who allow for this, and have helped me become smarter growing from past mistakes.
10) Freedom. I currently am watching television, writing a blog, having enjoyed a tuna sandwich and a bag of chips. Nobody told me I couldn't do any of that. Thank you freedom.

So, I could go on forever, but I too am struck by the wonder of my life....because to me the "wonder" does not have to be as profound as being named to the Supreme Court.

I would be willing to bet that no matter where you are at in your life...if you truly thought about it...you too would be struck by the wonder of your life.

My advice: think about it. Make your own list. Then read it....and you will catch yourself smiling.

Because they are at the heart of the wonder of my life... I love my girls.....