289. Blessings - Mavis Staples
Georgia O’Keeffe, Sunrise (1916)
Many times in my life, I’ve come across someone who won’t smile, who won’t speak to me.
Many times in my life, I’ve come across someone who won’t smile, who won’t speak to me. I’ll get on an elevator and say “good morning,” and that person won’t say anything in return. My sister Yvonne—she’s different from me. When people are rude or unfriendly, Yvonne’ll tell them, “I didn’t do anything to you! Whatever is on your mind, don’t take it out on me.” But I’m wired differently. I keep a smile on my face, and I say to myself, “All right. I’ll say a little prayer for you.”
And I’ll say a prayer that whatever they’re struggling with, they’ll get through. That whatever is heavy, whatever is burdening them, they’ll find a way to lighten that load. That they’ll realize, even in the middle of great struggle, there are things to be thankful for.
This is especially true in hard times like these. When things are difficult, when troubles seem overwhelming, it’s helpful to look back and consider all you’ve gotten through and how far you’ve come. It’s important to remember your blessings, starting with the fact that you woke up this morning. The sun rose again, and you did too—and here you are, breathing, above the concrete.
And just acknowledging that simple fact as a blessing—that can make you feel better. That’s what I’m hoping for when people come to hear me sing. When they leave a concert, I want people to feel better, to feel good—because I feel good. I’m singing for myself too.
- Mavis Staples
