Arms crossed and mouth pouted, she glared defiantly. She wanted her sister’s present rather than her own. She didn’t care that her parents carefully chose her gift based on her age and interests. The only thing that mattered in her five-year- old mind was her sister’s gift.

How often do our reactions mirror those of an ungrateful child? We overlook God’s love and plan for us as unique individuals as well as the gift made possible through Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Instead, we only see people we believe have a better life, and our gratitude turns to grumbling. When we focus on ourselves or those around us, we lose sight of the unparalleled gifts God extends to each of us.