A friend of mine recently told me about her struggle with becoming nearly blind from cataracts. She told me of the fears she had to face walking outdoors and not being able to even see the moving traffic. She told me of the difficulties she had to overcome trying to do things without her eyes and learning to “see” by only sound and touch. She also told me of the joys she experienced as her other senses expanded and the wonderful world of hearing, smelling, tasting, and touching came alive for her. She even told me how grateful to God she was for getting to go through this before finally getting the surgery she needed to restore her vision. It made me realize just how amazing and courageous the people are who have to live without their eyesight. It also made me think of how much I take my own eyesight for granted at times. It is a gift from God and I am so blessed to have it.

I am so grateful to my friend for helping me to see clearly again all the glorious gifts we are given in this life. After hearing from her I closed my eyes for a long time and quietly thanked God for them all. When I finally opened my eyes again I rejoiced in seeing the clouds in the sky, my son’s smiling face, and my daughter’s bright, shining eyes once more.

God loves us all so much. He gives us sight, sound, and smell. He gives us taste and touch. He gives us minds to think, hearts to feel, and souls to be one with Him. He gives us all we need to rejoice in this life, learn in this life, and love in this life. His glorious and unconditional love strengthens us to face all the challenges we must go through and His wonderful wisdom guides us as we continue to grow and become who we were meant to be. His gifts and blessings are endless and eternal. May we all see them clearly, embrace them lovingly, and share them joyously with everyone everywhere.

Joseph J. Mazzella joecool@wirefire.com