THE MORAL OF THE STORY:Give thanks, avoid jealousy

“Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to count up past mercies.”

— CHARLES E. JEFFERSON

“Cindy, I still remember the quote you used before Christmas about jealousy, the one that says that jealousy has a bitter taste, like eating a peach pit,” a friend said to me recently.

I told her that when I’d heard another friend speak on jealousy, I thought it was interesting what the group suggested as things that contribute to jealousy. After such predictable things such as media and advertising, one woman said that she thought that lack of trust in God led to jealousy. We agreed that if we trust that God will provide for us, and thank him for how he has done so in the past, our growing gratitude is likely to keep jealousy from sprouting.

The discussion reminded me of a story a friend shared about her wonderful cleaning lady. My friend and several other women share the same cleaning lady and have all been impressed with how she never complains, even though her life is not easy. Instead, she always chooses to be grateful. When the cleaning woman had a birthday recently, the women all wanted to get her something nice. When they asked her what she’d like, she said, “What I’d like most is to spend time with my friends at a nice meal, and you are my friends.”

At the meal, each woman affirmed the birthday girl. They thanked her for loving each of them and their families so well and for taking such good care of their homes. They also complimented her on being so positive, for being honest and totally trustworthy.

Then the honored guest thanked each of them, and said, “I didn’t have friends growing up, and you all taught me what it means to be a friend…. I’ve watched you during the years and have seen how you’ve shown the love of Christ to each other.”

The gratitude spread around the table was sweet indeed. Everybody came away from the meal filled with gratitude, with plenty left over to share.

And you can quote me on that.

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CINDY TRANE CHRISTESON is a Newport Beach resident who speaks frequently to parenting groups. She may be reached at

[email protected] or 537 Newport Center Drive, Box 505, Newport Beach, CA 92660.