You discover that your dream car guzzles fuel and leaves you broke almost all the time... That glitzy outfit makes you look like a scare-crow, and those designer Italian shoes pinch your feet so much you can't help but limp when you walk. I'm sure you're wondering where I'm going with this.
Well, life is a lot like that. Sometimes we spend so much time coveting what's in the shop window that we fail to appreciate what we already have. We obsess over movie stars, our boss or the girl next door so much that we ignore the people closest to us...
Our fantasies blind us to the consistent, never waning efforts of our loved ones. We take for granted the people who look after us when we're sick, those who remember our birthdays every year, those who never forget to say 'Good morning' and 'Good night.'
We shun once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to study or volunteer because what we really want is a magic potion for instant success.
"If only I was a Kardashian, Beyonce or the child of a US President," we think to ourselves.
We wish we could have Jack's job, Sarah's family and Nick's wealth. But we never stop to consider the fact that perhaps, Jack's powerful position leaves him with no time for any kind of social life, that he often has to spend nights alone in the office crunching numbers and writing lengthy reports.
We overlook the fact that Sarah's family life may not be as rosy as it looks from the outside - that perhaps there are many horrendous fights and buckets of tears that are shed behind the four walls of her house.
The thought that rich Nick may be drowning in a sea of loneliness despite his great wealth doesn't even cross our minds. We conveniently forget that all that glitters is not gold. We want what is out of our reach and completely disregard the beauty that surrounds us everyday.
So, this is a reminder that: Before you get taken in by what's in the shop window, look around you and appreciate what God has given you. Be thankful for your house - someone out there lives on the cold, dusty streets.
Be thankful for your family - someone wishes they had someone to come home to at the end of the day. Be thankful for your life - someone is writhing in pain on their death bed.
Make the most of your days as a student, secretary or volunteer. There are millions of men and women, boys and girls who spend their entire existence dodging bullets and would practically give ANYTHING for an opportunity to sit in an algebra class or office meeting.
Cherish your loved ones. Sure, they make mistakes - but who doesn't? When you open your eyes and heart to all the amazing things in your life, you'll realize just how blessed you are.
In closing, remember: If the grass looks greener on the other side, the water bill is probably higher too.
Live, Love, Learn! The best in life is waiting!
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