Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, many folks get depressed during the cold winter months. But here’s a good word: did we know that praise combats depression? It’s been suggested that we count our blessings; let’s give it a try.

Following is a list of just a few lifesavers:

Electric blanket … bread hot from the oven … letter from favorite niece … watching animal’s antics especially as they are playing in the snow … no wind today, hooray … a good book to read from the library … call from oldest brother … stiffly starched shirts … wet kiss from a new puppy … snow flakes falling, think MORE moisture … good health … more day light — woo hoo … nice warm home … new recipe tried …covey of quail happened by … friend over for lunch … kiss from a wee, wingless cherub.

While we are thinking about these lifesavers, which we, each day, can add more to this list, we need to remember that You, Lord, have given us all these things and much more.

The list of lifesavers could go on and on as we think about our dear family, precious friends who live in our neighborhood, as well as nearest, dearest and helpful neighbors. How blessed we are to know that if we needed help with whatever, that there are several nearby folks who could and would come help us out. Thank You, Lord, for all these cherished folks.

When we get to worrying or to the point of thinking “Who cares?” — which we all come to now and then, we only have to open Your Word to see that You Love us and You care for us. If we doubt, all we need to do is read the praise Psalms where it is plainly stated. For instance, reading Psalm 150:6: “Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.”

Thank You, Lord, for all that You have given us.

Love, Mara