When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive—to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love. (Marcus Aurelius, 1st century Roman emperor)

What’s the first thing that comes into your mind when you awake in the morning? The day’s tasks? Having to face the rush hour traffic? The looming deadline for the assignments that haven’t been finished? Or, do you think ahead to the day’s opportunities and the ways you can be an encouragement to someone? Aurelius makes a good suggestion; try to follow it tomorrow.

This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24)