Seriously So Blessed

Tonight I've been struck with a hit of emotions. I was watching American Idol and they showed a segment on "Idol gives back" and Carrie Underwood traveled to Africa to help the people there protect against malaria. It was so touching! I am such a sucker for those kinds of things. It brings tears to my eyes. Gosh, I am so blessed to live in a free country where we have sanitary homes and public places. Then I was reading my sister in law, Jennifer's blog, and she posted the story of the highschool "nerd" who was carrying his books home on a Friday and a bunch of bullies pushed him over and knocked all of his books out of his hands. A kind boy his age came over and befriended him. THis "nerd" turned out to be quite popular and the valedictorian of his graduating class. At his valedictorian speech, he thanked that friend for helping him. That weekend when he was carrying the books home, he was planning to kill himself, but never did because of his new friend. I remember in elementary school, junior high and highschool there was specifically this one girl that was always in my classes, who was always being made fun of. As we grew older and graduated highschool, I saw what a shame her life had been. She had abusive boyfriends and no real friends, was pregnant and had zero support, and was alone and sad. I have always thought about her and what her life could've been if maybe I had been a friend to her. If even one person had befriended her maybe she wouldn't have had to go through some of those things. I have to live with that regret, but I have learned a valuable lesson from it. Never underestimate the power of a smile, or a 'hello', or 'let's hang out'. I am so thankful to Heavenly Father for my life! I have the best parents who taught me the best way to live. My two sisters are incredible. Beck is such an amazing example of patience, faith in trials, and purity. Ness is so virtuous and sweet. My two bros are rad. Russ takes advantage of every opportunity thats out there and seizes the day. Nate is so good with people and making them feel comfortable. I love Matt with all my heart. I knew long before I got married that there was only one person in the world that could put up with me. I found him and will always love him. Addi has brought new meaning to life. She is completely 100% innocent and pure. She makes me want to be much, much better. i don't feel worthy to be her mom. I love life!