Most people start a conversation saying, “How are you?”
For some time now, my response has been simple: “I am blessed.” But, in recent days, that answer has taken on an even deeper meaning.
Within a matter of hours, I discovered wood rot in a recently purchased trailer.
Then my daughter accidentally locked her keys inside the car, resulting in a $100 service call.
Shortly afterward, while backing up the trailer so my wife and daughter could go camping, my wife turned too sharply and smashed the rear window of our truck.
It would have been easy to focus on the inconvenience, frustration, and expense. But the following day, while attending Mass, I began to reflect on the many blessings God has poured into my life.
I have been married to the same beautiful woman for almost 42 years.
Together, we have been blessed with eight wonderful children and 17 grandchildren whom we love dearly.
We have a comfortable home and two vehicles in the driveway.
I have work that allows me to do what I love: introduce men to our Lord Jesus Christ and help them grow in faith.
When I look back over my life, I realize how many extraordinary opportunities God has given me.
I had the privilege of meeting Mother Angelica and appearing on her program on EWTN.
I brought a rugby team to Italy and experienced that beautiful country.
I travelled across Canada with my family in 2000 and through the United States in 2010.
For our 30th wedding anniversary, I travelled to the Holy Land with Jeff Cavins.
These are only a few of the many adventures and graces I have received.
I have also met countless remarkable people along the way—some well known, others known only to those closest to them, but all gifts from God. Most recently, I completed our annual motorcycle ride. It was our longest ride in time, and it gave us the opportunity to enjoy one another’s company while witnessing the beauty of God’s creation.
I am surrounded by brothers who stand beside me as we organize men’s conferences, serve the Church, and support one another through life’s difficulties. Their friendship and prayers are blessings I never want to take for granted.
During my years as a police officer, I witnessed much darkness and encountered some of the evils of this world. Yet God continually helped me remain focused on His goodness, mercy, and gifts.
A few years ago, my son played the lead in White Christmas. One of the songs reminded us that, when we are worried and cannot sleep, we can count our blessings instead of sheep. That advice contains a profound spiritual truth.
Saying “I am blessed” when things are not going well does not mean ignoring life’s challenges. It means choosing to remember that God’s goodness is greater than any temporary difficulty.
So, the next time someone asks how you are doing, pause for a moment. Count your blessings—and remember to give thanks to God.
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