Genuine Thankfulness

Today I ran into someone I haven't seen in a long time; more than four months. His reaction made my day. I'm not bragging; at least not in the traditional, 'look at me, I'm better than you' sense. I know full well if it weren't for the grace of God and the skill of a surgeon I'm be where I started this journey, or worse. For years I struggled and failed with my efforts to control my weight. I'm proud of my results so far, but I'm not stupid. I know credit belongs where credit is due.

A friend who had weight loss surgery before I did, heard me say in response to a comment someone made on my weight loss, that I had cheated. He pulled me aside and told me I didn't cheat. I took responsibility. I took control. I took drastic measures to correct my situation, but I didn't cheat. He's right. Cheating implies gain at someones expense. My surgery has proven to be gain for everyone I love and care about.

There isn't an aspect of my life that isn't improved. The first time my granddaughter put her arms around me and realized her hands touched, is etched in my mind. She was shocked. Then over-joyed and then locked her hands around my waste and held on like she'd just discovered something really good: me.

That kind of reaction doesn't give rise to bragging. That kind of reaction instills humility and a genuine thankfulness for the opportunity I've been given.