A Rose among Thorns.

Today's Gratitude Note opened with these lines:

Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; 

I am thankful that thorns have roses. 

 ~Alphonse Karr~

and gave us this challenge:

As you consider gratitude today, think about something that bothers you, irks you, ticks you off. Pause. Can you think of one thing (just one) (but maybe more) that’s actually good about this particular thing? Does it stretch you in some way? Can you accept the thorns in order to celebrate the rose?

I couldn't help but recall those words as I left the polls this afternoon after casting my ballot in what has been the most awful election process I could imagine.

I love this country. I love (most of ... let's be honest here) the people who live here. The right to vote - to elect those who will lead this great country of ours - is a privilege and an honor. And casting my vote in an informed manner is a responsibility I have taken more seriously this year than ever.

Regardless of next week's outcome, our nation has a lot of healing to do. We'll need to keep our eyes on the rose

One nation ... with liberty and justice for all

because I think the thorns are going to be plentiful and painful.

So - this wasn't at all the post I thought I'd write today, but it's the one that seemed right. Many of my blogging friends are playing along with Kat and Carol today and talking about their favorite teachers. Click here to read more about it and to join in the fun!