Sorry for the hackneyed title. I know it’s kind of an old saw. Anyway, here’s my point: I’m getting older (not “old,” mind you, old is always 20 years older than I am), and lately I’ve been feeling the effects of living in a rental unit–by which I mean that some of my body parts are wearing a little thin. Hence, I’ve been whining a lot about my lack of youthiness; just ask my wife (whose own rental unit still looks pretty great, by the way).
In response, I can hear God whispering, “Dude, spend less time on what you don’t have, and more on what you do” (aforementioned wife included). In other words, “Count your blessings.” So I’ve started doing that and, I gotta tell ya, I have a lot of them! So what if “count your blessings” is an old saw? It still has teeth. And, frankly, it’s one of the most underused tools in the workshop!
Anyway, there are only maybe half a dozen truly original messages in the world, some would say only two (Matthew 22:37-39). In fact, my favorite books and movies all tend to revolve around the same key themes, yet I never stop needing to hear them. Why? Because I have this uncanny ability to forget what really matters in life.
So, last night I was reminded once again to count my blessings. And I did. And it worked. But I know I’ll need to keep being reminded until this rental unit is finally parked underground, and the thing I call myself moves on to more permanent digs. You too? If so, I invite you–not for the first time, I’m sure–to join me in…
Counting your blessings. 
Feeling the teeth of that old saw with this post. Ouch and thank you.
My pleasure, Debi.
I just realized, I don[‘t click “Like” enough on your posts. Thanks you for your many insights. And yes, your wife’s portrait is in my attic, just so you know why she continues to out young you…
Hah, I’m guessing this is a family member, but it says it’s from “Anonymous.”
Such a relatable and uplifting read! It’s amazing how gratitude can shift our mindset and bring joy. I appreciate your candidness and the positive vibes.🤝
Thanks, John, glad it spoke to you.
🤝
Is it is so important, Mitch, to quit navel gazing and start praising God for another beautiful day. Counting our blessings can take a long time because there are so many of them!
You have alooot to be thankful for Mitch 💫
Count me in!
An old saw, but still makes for a beatiful hymn of praise to how good Father is to us:
Always a good reminder for me!
Aha, rental unit. I’m adopting that one, although (as I told the young physical therapist who coached me through total reverse shoulder replacement four years ago), I’m not elderly yet! He asked what age would qualify for elderly. Flustered, I chose 89! It’s comin’ quicker than I’d expected, but I’m thankful for this often-surgeried rental unit!
May I suggest you adopt the sliding ’20-years-older-than-I-am’ method, Joy? It’s easy to calculate and keeps you perpetually young.
That’s even scarier. (I was born 2 days before D-Day scarier!)
joy multiply 8 × 8
For me it’s not just about counting my blessings – it’s naming and appreciating them
Exactly, Malcolm.
And writing about them for the rest of us, Malcolm!
You’re one of them to me, Mitch. 😊
Aw, thank you, Bette. Likewise, my friend.
Isn’t he though!
Couldn’t agree more, Mitch. Gratitude is key <3
I felt this Mitch. Very relatable. Just gotta give His thanks every day for the good things in life. For many, the simple things remain but a dream. 🙏
Sadly true, Nigel.
What a great post!
Thank you!
Thank you so much for the reminder, Mitch. This is very timely for me since I am looking for a new job which is so difficult. Just today I said to myself that I am fine, that I have everything I need and that the right job will come my way when it’s time. So, your post is an appreciated confirmation.
Delighted to hear that, Erika.
Glad to have you here, Mitch!
You’re right, the multitude of blessings God has bestowed upon us are too many to list. I usually start my day thanking the Good Lord for the basics-another day and another breath. Thanks, Mitch, for an enjoyable post! 🙂
My privilege, Nancy.
This couldn’t be more timely. Thanks for the reminder!
My pleasure, Carolyn!
I’ve been counting my blessings for years and it make a world of difference! 💖
Wonderful reminder for all! Thanks, Mitch, counting them “one by one.”
Mitch, this was timely for me. I was focused on something that was not going great and was reminded to shift my focus on all my blessings. Thank you.
My privilege, Manu.
I’ve been whining a lot, myself. Thanks for the reminder. 😊
My pleasure, Kelley.
A great reminder for us all. Writing them in a gratitude book a few mornings per week is a must for me.
An excellent idea, my friend. (Afraid I don’t know your name.)
For the purposes of the blog, I went by “Mama duck” for many years and recently changed it to “midlife Mama” (since the ducks have left the nest😄)!
;>) MLM for short?
Perfect!! I love it!😄
matthew 47:12-14 clap & shout o heavens from colby’s clubhouse o matthew 12:47
I just really enjoy you writing style, and gratitude is this truly underrated tool that helps a ton
So glad to hear that, Johan.
We all need to be more aware of our blessings. Thank you Mitch. 💕📚
My pleasure, Sandy.
You brought a smile to my face! Thank you for your wisdom.
My privilege, Daniel.
Not by any means religious in the accepted way, I do find great value in your words and today especially it is good daily advice.
Delighted to hear that, my friend.
I’ve blogger buds who strive to keep me on an even keel. For the most part, successfully.
Beautifully put. Thanks Mitch. I needed that in my rental unit about to turn 79.
A wonderful reminder to appreciate all of the blessings we have received…on a regular, ongoing basis….and never to be taken for granted.
Not sure if this is across the board, but in my circle (including my beloved husband) it seems men have a more difficult time the aging process than women. On the other hand, I need to admit my ‘rental unit’ has some clear signs of wear and tear as well… And not to be so proud as to think or say that women have it all together, for living with us certainly proves our humanity, neediness and fallibility in other areas. Bottom line, attitude – especially the attitude of gratitude – certainly makes a difference. It’s a choice, and a great one at that! An old quote says, “If you want to gripe, there’s plenty to grumble about; if you want to be glad, there’s plenty to be grateful for.” ~unknown Thank you for reminding me to be grateful… I’m so glad! 😁
Me too, Dori!
Love your sense of hurmor, Mitch. Gladly joining you in counting my blessings. We all need reminders to hit the surface of our thoughts. Thank you for sharing!
My pleasure, San!
Amen, Mitch. I never heard our current body likened to a rental unit before, but it’s a metaphor I’ll definitely be using.
Lots here that I relate to. Thanks.
My pleasure, Rob.
Good move to respect the spousal unit just in case she’s reading this! 🙂 Keep an “old saw” shined and oiled and it still cuts wood. “Measure twice, cut once” is another one that stays fresh.
Research has pinpointed many benefits experienced by those who practice gratitude, including improved sleep, mood, and immunity as well as decreased depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain, and risk of disease (https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org). That rental unit of yours just might last longer with daily gratitude!
So I’ve heard, Nancy, and I do plan to put it into practice!
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Blessing from our God are really amazing and I’m truly greatful for them Mitch.
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is a mystery.
Today is a gift!
A term often becomes cliche, traditional, or an “old saw” simply because it expresses a timeless truth that has not changed throughout human history and never will. “Count your blessings” would have been wise advice to our first human parents, and it will remain so for the last humans to live on Earth, and even beyond. It’s as sensible as “If you’re hungry, you should eat something.” So, it’s wise advice.
I know I need to be reminded about this constantly.
Amen, Michael.
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Wise and wonderful! God loves a grateful heart and a grateful heart is forever young regardless of the temporary unit holding it. God bless.
You too, Stephanie.
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