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As we set out on our trail today, we run into a very rough trail that is narrow and scattered with rocks and loose dirt. It makes getting solid footing very difficult, but we must continue on our 20 mile hike. It certainly will be difficult.

Under the adverse conditions of life, it is very easy for each of us to start grumbling and complaining. We are all tempted to do so. We have to ask ourselves, "Is this grumbling and complaining going to help us along our Trek today?"

This reminds me of a time about 35 years ago when Paula and I would pick up an elderly lady Mrs. Borne every Sunday and take her to church. She was significantly crippled with arthritis, and it was difficult for her to walk and even get in the car. But, she faithfully came each week. We would ask her how she was doing each time we picked her up, and she would go on about how difficult it was to get around and talk about her husband who had died many years before. But, she would always end her story with, "I’m not complaining, mind ya." Paula and I still jokingly use that phrase when we catch ourselves grumbling or complaining about something. As with most complaining, it is usually over something quite trivial.