I saw an angel at work last year. No, I did not see halo. Or feathered wings. Or a flowing white gown dancing in wind. But there was no mistaking unique handiwork.

When Little Lady was just one-and-a-half years old, we were visiting friends in another town. Sunday morning, we accompanied them to their church, which is surrounded by a great semi-circle hallway. You cannot enter church itself except through one of four or five doorways from hallway.

We entered building, heading right down hallway straight for nursery to leave our Little Lady with strangers for first time ever. Note that we had not yet entered actual church. The caretaker handed us a number and told us that if our child got too restless, we would see that number projected on screen at front of church.

We headed into church through a door at far side. We sat down in a pew, anticipating to see number within five minutes.

I wanted a newer car (a 1987) with a tapedeck; I wanted new siding and insulation for back part of house. I wanted a new mattress for our bed, to replace sagging, split and lumpy one we had had for five years. (We bought it used for fifty dollars.) I wanted relief for Archie's paining back and arm. I wanted—well, list went on.

Then I realized what an ingrate I was. I have a nice little car, a comfortable home, a bed to lie on and a supply of food. I have a husband whose love, compassion and sensitivity are second to none . We have our animals (pets all, from dogs, cats and raccoon to horses, goats and chickens) and our neighbours and friends. Once again, list went on.

Am I really so different from you? Do you too find yourself focusing on what you want, instead of thanking God for what you have already? Do you, too, forget millions of souls on our weary planet who could live for a week on your daily diet? Do you, too, sometimes think that because you live in a Western society, you are entitled to share an affluent lifestyle? Do you, too, think that a camcorder is a need? a remote for your television, a necessity? a top-fashion outfit a prerequisite to your happiness?