The World Is Mine, No Need To Whine

I've just gotten in touch with my close friends way back in college. We've missed each other so much because it's been awhile since we've last seen each other, so many things to catch up on and so we decided to have our little reunion soon.  It was great to hear from them but also sad because of what some of them are going through right now. And here I am complaining about my own problems. I felt ashamed, somewhat guilty because I just realized how puny my worries are compared to other people. I also remembered one of my favorite poems and wish to share it with you. I had it on the cover of my folder when I was in college and even had a friend of mine draw me some pictures to go with it. It's a simple poem but the meaning is just beautiful so here it goes.....

The World is Mine
By: Dr. Tennyson Guyer 
 
Today upon a bus I saw a girl with golden hair;
She seemed so gay, I envied her, and wished that I were half so fair;
I watched her as she rose to leave, and saw her hobble down the aisle.
She had one leg and wore a crutch, but as she passed--a smile.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I have two legs--the world is mine.
 
Later on I bought some sweets. The boy who sold them had such charm,
I thought I'd stop and talk awhile. If I were late, t'would do no harm.
And as we talked he said, "thank you, sir, you've really been so kind .
It's nice to talk to folks like you because, you see, I'm blind."
Oh, God , forgive me when I whine;
I have two eyes--the world is mine.
 
Later, walking down the street, I met a boy with eyes so blue.
But he stood and watched the others play, it seemed he knew not what to do.
I paused, and then I said," Why don't you join the others, dear?"
But he looked straight ahead without a word, and then I knew, he couldn't hear.
Oh, God forgive me when I whine;
I have two ears--the world is mine.
 
Two legs to take me where I go,
Two eyes to see the sunset's glow,
Two ears to hear all I should know,
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine;
I'm blest, indeed, the world is mine.

So the next time you complain, just be reminded that the troubles of other people are sometimes greater than our own. Instead of thinking about the things you lack, think of the things you have. In short, count your blessings! You'll be surprised just how fortunate you are.