What kind of house do you have?

"What kind of house do you have?  How big is it?Do you have electricity? Running water? Can you get internet?"

These questions were among the first questions that Mexicans asked me during my brief trip to Baja California del Sur.  At first it seems that these are just normal questions of one person trying to get to know the other through butchered English and Spanish communication. However, I learned that these questions give them an idea of my wealth and status.

under a grass roof

Many homes in the part of Mexico I was in were made out of cardboard, blankets, presswood, sheet metal, random pieces of wood, and grass. The nicer ones were made with brick walls and adobe roofs. Some are fortunate enough to have cement houses. Though they may have a cellphone, they don't have running water or electricity.

I AM SO BLESSED.

I came home to a soundly built, heated house. When I hit the switch, light flooded the room. When I entered the kitchen, the dishes were overflowing the sink and counters. No cockroaches or mice were scampering away. Washing the dishes was facilitated by running water from a faucet. In fact, there is also running water in the bathroom- I can take as long a HOT shower as I want, and the toilet flushes without the aid of a bucket of water poured in the tank. I have my OWN room, and a comfortable bed with plenty of blankets.

Yes indeed. I have so much.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I am grateful for the fresh perspective. How much I often "take for granted" by never thanking God for what He's given me. I have so MUCH. Thank you Lord for your rich blessings. I don't deserve anything, yet you provide all my needs and so much more.

"...for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."

Philippians 4:8

more on Mexico to come later...