I received an e-mail from a friend the other day with a link to something called: “Ten of the Greatest Gifts Life Can Give.” Here’s the list: Manners, Child-like Energy, Family, Finding My Soul Family, Peace, Setbacks and Challenges, Self-belief, Loss, Love, A New Day. Here’s a few thoughts about them:

Manners: In a world where there is a lack of manners, I hope we work hard to bring them back.

Child-like Energy: Jesus even told us to be “child-like.” Having their joy and energy always bring a smile to my face.

Family: We don’t know much about Jesus’ family, but we do know how much he cared for his mother. We would do well to treasure our families.

Peace: Jesus always managed to appear at peace no matter what was happening around him. Such a precious gift!

Setbacks and Challenges: How we deal with setbacks and challenges is based on the grounding we have in Jesus. We know where to seek answers.

Self-belief: Believing in who you are and whose you are will go a long way.

Loss: Like setbacks, loss can be a wonderful opportunity for growth.

Love: Human love is priceless, but the love of Jesus has no equal. Treasure it!

And the final gift — A New Day — is surely most precious. If yesterday was painful or exhausting or just a day you’d like to forget, a new day is always on the horizon. Each day is a new beginning for every Christian who knows that Jesus comes in with the dawn.