When tragedy strikes ...

Feb. 7, 2007 - When tragedy strikes ...
I find myself reminded of what is really important.
And so,
I will not get frustrated by having to repeat the directions for multiplying 3 digits by 3 digits, I'll explain it again, practice a little and let it be and thank my God again tomorrow when I can do it another day
I will not hold back a hug or a smile or a laugh in an effort to keep us on task , I will treasure each and every one of them as they are the real purpose for the day
I will not be too busy to shoot baskets- I will treasure being asked and able
I will not be too tired to snuggle, read,, talk, dream ... I wil do it with pleasure and joy
I will not be too involved in my own book to answer those "Why ______" questions ... I'll take the opportunity before me
I will listen to the eyes of the person speaking to me and really try to not miss the point
I will not be so involved in what's readily available that I ignore whether or not my efforts will bless my family (ie ... cheeseburger casserole instead of blue plate specials), I'll consider that I'm in this place in my life for this purpose and I won't wonder if it's worthwhile because it doesn't come with the pats on the back or accolades that some jobs have had. I'll recall the eternal consequences of doing the job of wife and mother and doing it well.
I will not complain about having to do another load of laundry because someone has jumped in a mud puddle or been tackled by the coon dogs ... I'll be thankful for clothing and the lanky bundle of energy that brought it to life.
I will gladly mend the overalls that allow me to stay home and make the most of every moment... and I'll make an effort to learn to do it well.
I will not simply recount the blessings I've been counting over and over, but rather take a moment and let just what a God-thing it is that they exist in such plenty wash over me again and again.
I will not withhold a kind word because I'm busy and might get caught on the phone ... I'll make that phone call.
I will not ignore the prompting in my heart to _________ (call, cook, visit, write ...) because I have 4 more things that need to be accomplished, I'll recognize the Holy Spirit's authority over my time and energy ... and if it doesn't have an eternal consequence, it doesn't get top priority.
I will memorize more scripture because when things like this happen my mind needs to remind my heart that God is in control and that all things work together for His purpose ... and a concordance just muddies the waters between God's heart and mine.
I will confess my sins of impatience and harshness and self-centeredness with sincerity and repentance ... beg for mercy and grace to do a better job of loving and caring for those God has placed in my life ... and be truly grateful for everyday.