In Little Woman, Mrs. March tells this story to her daughters:
"Once upon a time, there were four girls, who had enough to eat and drink and wear, a good many comforts and pleasures...and yet they were not contented...These girls...made many excellent resolutions; but they...were constantly saying, 'If we only had this, ' or ' If we could only do that.'...So they asked an old woman what spell they could use to make them happy, and she said, 'When you feel discontented, think over your blessings, and be grateful.'
"They decided to try her advice, and soon were surprised to see how well off they were. One discovered that money couldn't keep shame and sorrow out of rich people's houses; another that...she was a great deal happier with her youth, health, and good spirits than a certain fretful, feeble old lady, who couldn't enjoy her comforts; a third that, disagreeable as it was to go begging for it; and the fourth, that even carnelian rings were not so valuable as good behavior."
REMEMBER THAT DISCONTENTMENT IS ROOTED IN UNGRATEFULNESS. TEACH YOUR CHILDREN THE SECRET OF CONTENTMENT BY TEACHINGS THEM TO BE THANKFUL.
I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13.
Archbishop Danette M. Scott, Ph.D. A Ray of Hope Christian Center Sr. Pastor/Founder www.arayofhopeministries.org
