BANNING SHEEP

Counting sheep never worked for me! I find it boring and often my thoughts drift to and fro. Eventually, I fixate on a foible that will turn into a major crisis by 3 AM! Once daylight hits, I'm tired and discover the crisis really is only a foible. Such a waste of time and emotion. Irving Berlin must have had the same problem. In the early 50s, the songwriter couldn't sleep and complained to his wife that counting sheep didn't work. She said, "Why don't you count your blessings instead of sheep." Instantly, he went to his piano and a song was born. Bing Crosby made it famous in the classic movie, "White Christmas." About that same time, Rosemary Clooney also included it on her album making the song a big hit in it's day. Such a sweet song! Since I have bouts of insomnia (a condition I've suffered on and off since childhood), it is a song I've tried to condition myself to sing in my head so that my thoughts turn from ridiculous "sheep" problems to wonderful, God given blessings. Sometimes I fall asleep, but sometimes not. But if I'm going to be awake, I might as well dwell on the positive! It certainly is a more peaceful experience. Thankfully, these "bouts" are temporary and eventually, I'm back to a deep slumber for which I am so thankful for. I highly recommend it. Give it a try! Sweet Dreams!!!

"...for he grants sleep to those he loves." Psalm 127:2b



COUNTING YOUR BLESSINGS
Instead of Sheep
Words & Music by Irving Berlin, 1954


When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings