Reminded of my Blessings

Today I traveled with our school's Chorale to the Nationwide Columbus Children's Hospital. Kids were wheeled down in chairs or on mobile beds, followed by the IV's and machines their frail bodies were attached to. Some of their faces were smiling, although you could still see the exhaustion and sickness. Other faces looked tired, defeated and worn. There were sleigh bells handed out by some of the staff and the kids happily jingled away throughout the show and many clapped along to the songs. There were some who could that even got up and danced, although held back by injuries and tubes. Each show at a hospital or school is ended with the song 'Because it's Christmas'. Some of the lyrics include:

"Tonight belongs to all the children, Tonight their joy rings through the air

And so we send our tender blessings, To all the children everywhere

To see the smiles and hear the laughter, A time to give, A time to share

Because it's Christmas, For now and forever

For all of the children, And for the children in us all"

As the chorale beautifully sang these lyrics to audience members, many of them teared up and my heart was struck. I was reminded of how truly blessed I really am to be healthy and have the life that I do. My life has been filled with opportunity and blessings, much more than most. The places I've gotten the chance to go, the achievements I've made, the good health I have, the family who have been healthy and happy, the friends who have been put into my life, and I'm now working to get to college and make my career goals come true. Some of those children may never get to do any of that, there are some who won't even make it to Christmas this year and yet they are joyful about getting to be dressed up and sung to. I cried today, I cried for the kids who broke my heart, and because I am so happy and thankful to be blessed.