Wow! I flip a switch -- and a light comes on! I punch in a few buttons -- and the microwave begins heating! I move a switch -- and water begins dripping through the coffee grounds in the filter! I turn on the hot water and hot water comes out of the faucet! Yes, we have power back on, after two days without electricity because of Tropical Storm Ernesto.

What wondrous things -- indoor plumbing carrying hot water, electric lights and coffee pots and cooking applicances. What a shame that we most often take them for granted.

It is a spiritual practice: to be thankful for the wonders that surround us day to day. When we are grateful, we become joyous!