The daily devotion I'm working through this month has a theme of thankfulness. Shocker, I know. Today it challenged me about being thankful in times of plenty and in want. You've heard it before; give thanks for your circumstances. In need, hunger, pain, suffering and uncertainty...show gratitude. But, I think I had glossed over what a privilege it is to give thanks in times of plenty.
Sure, I give thanks for the food that graces my table, the three sweet guys that gather around it with me and the roof above our heads. I've even thanked God when I found the missing shoe or that overdue library book. But, plenty is not just these fleeting moments.
"Plenty is not just a season or a lifestyle enjoyed by a group of lucky people, just as want is not just a sad face emoji that begs to be prayed for and brought a meal. We cannot simply characterize our circumstances on a sliding scale from famine to abundance because, for the believer, plenty and want are constant states of being" - She Reads Truth, 11/22/13
Each of us have real, tangible, plentiful blessings. In reality, our constant state is a want and need for grace. I'm so thankful I know the ultimate and faithful supplier! I'm challenging myself to count my blessings not just because it's a time of thanksgiving, but because it honors my God and His generous love for me!
"Think how much grace one saint requires, so much that nothing but the Infinite could supply him for one day; and yet the Lord spreads his table, not for one, but many saints, not for one day, but for many years; not for many years only, but for generation after generation." - Charles Spurgeon
Do you need an overflowing cup of His mercy today?
Showing posts with label thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thoughts. Show all posts
Friday, November 22, 2013
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Remembering
This weekend, specifically Sunday, has been all about remembering and honoring. It has been impossible not to think back to what I was doing ten years ago on that fateful Tuesday, September 11, 2001.
Word of those horrible attacks on American soil first reached me while I was at work.
I was in my (second) senior year at UGA, preparing to graduate at the end of the semester. I was newly engaged to my sweetheart of three years. That Tuesday morning I was in between teaching classes at the gymnastics facility where I worked part-time. Morning classes were my favorite because it brought in the mommies and preschoolers. The director called me up after my first class to tell me what was going on. My first thought was disbelief. I shudder to think about it now, but I recall I may have even chuckled at how unbelievable it all seemed.
You see I had been standing atop one of those towers a mere two months earlier. Sunday, July 15, 2001 to be exact. A day that up until then had been remarkable for its ending atop the Empire State Building where I said yes to a boy down on one knee. But two months later, all I could think about was how that same day had started in lower Manhattan with a trip to see Lady Liberty and Top of the World, the observation deck atop the South tower.
I can still remember talking with the few moms that did show up for the next class. One who had been watching when the second plane hit. I recall her saying she went numb and became glued to the unbelieveable scene unfolding in front of her. She said she didn't want to move, but realized it wasn't good for her 3 year-old to sit and watch her that way, so she had decided to come to class.
My afternoon classes at UGA were cancelled as were so many other things that day and the rest of the week. We went from shock and disbelief to a nation in mourning. Eventually we rallied...united with hope. Not a second went by that we weren't hearing about another account of a last-minute voice mail or an account of a first-responder who dashed into the flames. Not a day went by that we weren't flooded with the thoughts of the thousands of spouses, children, parents and loved ones who had lost their beloved husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters...
I can't pinpoint when it happened, but at some point a day arrived when I didn't think about it. You can decide if that's good or bad. Sure it was time to heal, but for those families that lost loved ones that day of healing may have come too soon.
About four or five years later, I returned to the city that never sleeps. It was a sombering experience to walk around what was now called Ground Zero. What was once a bustling home to economy was now a big hole full of dirt, concrete and construction equipment.
At some point, I'm sure I'll have to explain what happened that day ten years ago to a pair of curious boys. It will be impossible not to recall where I was, what I was doing and what I first thought of as I struggle to give meaning to a senseless act of evil. But, thankfully, I don't have to have all the answers.
Word of those horrible attacks on American soil first reached me while I was at work.
I was in my (second) senior year at UGA, preparing to graduate at the end of the semester. I was newly engaged to my sweetheart of three years. That Tuesday morning I was in between teaching classes at the gymnastics facility where I worked part-time. Morning classes were my favorite because it brought in the mommies and preschoolers. The director called me up after my first class to tell me what was going on. My first thought was disbelief. I shudder to think about it now, but I recall I may have even chuckled at how unbelievable it all seemed.
You see I had been standing atop one of those towers a mere two months earlier. Sunday, July 15, 2001 to be exact. A day that up until then had been remarkable for its ending atop the Empire State Building where I said yes to a boy down on one knee. But two months later, all I could think about was how that same day had started in lower Manhattan with a trip to see Lady Liberty and Top of the World, the observation deck atop the South tower.
I can still remember talking with the few moms that did show up for the next class. One who had been watching when the second plane hit. I recall her saying she went numb and became glued to the unbelieveable scene unfolding in front of her. She said she didn't want to move, but realized it wasn't good for her 3 year-old to sit and watch her that way, so she had decided to come to class.
My afternoon classes at UGA were cancelled as were so many other things that day and the rest of the week. We went from shock and disbelief to a nation in mourning. Eventually we rallied...united with hope. Not a second went by that we weren't hearing about another account of a last-minute voice mail or an account of a first-responder who dashed into the flames. Not a day went by that we weren't flooded with the thoughts of the thousands of spouses, children, parents and loved ones who had lost their beloved husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters...
I can't pinpoint when it happened, but at some point a day arrived when I didn't think about it. You can decide if that's good or bad. Sure it was time to heal, but for those families that lost loved ones that day of healing may have come too soon.
About four or five years later, I returned to the city that never sleeps. It was a sombering experience to walk around what was now called Ground Zero. What was once a bustling home to economy was now a big hole full of dirt, concrete and construction equipment.
At some point, I'm sure I'll have to explain what happened that day ten years ago to a pair of curious boys. It will be impossible not to recall where I was, what I was doing and what I first thought of as I struggle to give meaning to a senseless act of evil. But, thankfully, I don't have to have all the answers.
God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. Job 37:5
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Is it Enough?
I read a great article a couple of weeks ago about how we all have a "home team." For most of us our "home team" consists of our immediate family and a few close friends. The kind of folks that you know would drop everything and just come, if you needed them. Also, the kind that you know what flavor milkshake they love and possibly you've even seen them without their make-up on . Anyway, the writer talked about how she struggled with letting her "home team" get a little too big. If you are trying to be everything to too many folks, they all suffer.
The article got me thinking seriously about the commitments that I accept and the activities that I participate in. How do these things affect my ability to minister and aid my "home team?" I can honestly say that I have gotten caught up at times in the myth that I can do it all since I don't have a real job. I think that many stay-at-home moms have fallen into the trap of believing that caring for their family, raising their children, tending to their households is not enough. Maybe part of it is our own fault, too. We feel like we need something else, something outside of our homes, to validate us as successful.
For most of the families that have stay-at-home mothers, there are sacrifices involved. Many of them are financial, others involved the lack of accolades or career-paths put on hold. And, I'd wager to say that most if not all of those decisions of sacrifice were made for the sake of their family, not the sake of the PTO or this board position or that volunteer shift. Now, don't get me wrong, I feel like I am in a unique position to be involved in a lot of opportunities that other moms might not have the luxury to participate in. I definitely think I should do my share, but I also want my time to be viewed as valuable too. I also want to be confident in my decision when I have to say no to things, that it's not so I can have more time to sit around with my feet up. Instead it's so I can devote more time to my family and my responsibilities at home, which I'm still continually figuring out how to balance.
So, I'm challenging myself to look at the tasks I do each day, the duties I fulfill, that often seem mundane as a ministry to my "home team." I definitely feel like this is where God has called me to be at this season in my life. And, because of that, it is enough.
The article got me thinking seriously about the commitments that I accept and the activities that I participate in. How do these things affect my ability to minister and aid my "home team?" I can honestly say that I have gotten caught up at times in the myth that I can do it all since I don't have a real job. I think that many stay-at-home moms have fallen into the trap of believing that caring for their family, raising their children, tending to their households is not enough. Maybe part of it is our own fault, too. We feel like we need something else, something outside of our homes, to validate us as successful.
For most of the families that have stay-at-home mothers, there are sacrifices involved. Many of them are financial, others involved the lack of accolades or career-paths put on hold. And, I'd wager to say that most if not all of those decisions of sacrifice were made for the sake of their family, not the sake of the PTO or this board position or that volunteer shift. Now, don't get me wrong, I feel like I am in a unique position to be involved in a lot of opportunities that other moms might not have the luxury to participate in. I definitely think I should do my share, but I also want my time to be viewed as valuable too. I also want to be confident in my decision when I have to say no to things, that it's not so I can have more time to sit around with my feet up. Instead it's so I can devote more time to my family and my responsibilities at home, which I'm still continually figuring out how to balance.
So, I'm challenging myself to look at the tasks I do each day, the duties I fulfill, that often seem mundane as a ministry to my "home team." I definitely feel like this is where God has called me to be at this season in my life. And, because of that, it is enough.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Simple Pleasures
Over the last few days I've caught myself smiling and enjoying a few somewhat simple pleasures.
Watching the sheer joy a homemade ramp can bring to a pair of automobile lovers!
Getting a haircut. Having your hair shampooed and styled by someone else is sheer bliss, not to mention the adult conversation.
Two dry nights in a row for Jack. He had a bad spell there for a few days, which translated to a grumpy mommy. We're also finally seeing some victories on the #2 front (or rear). Pretty much telling us he needs to go at some point everyday and succeeding!
Seeing your sweet toddler sharing his prized popsicle with his little brother unprompted. This included removing Sam's paci, letting him try the popsicle and then returning the paci to previous position!
Finding some time for leisure reading. Whether it's a magazine or a book. I've found a few moments this week to get lost in the printed words.
The slight breeze (notice I said slight, April!). I'm a lover of warm temperatures, but this summer has been one of the hottest I can remember. I am thankful for things cooling off just a bit...love lunches on the back deck and afternoons outside. I feel like we haven't been able to step outside before 7:30 p.m. all summer long.
White knee socks on fat little chubby baby legs.
Getting a haircut. Having your hair shampooed and styled by someone else is sheer bliss, not to mention the adult conversation.
Two dry nights in a row for Jack. He had a bad spell there for a few days, which translated to a grumpy mommy. We're also finally seeing some victories on the #2 front (or rear). Pretty much telling us he needs to go at some point everyday and succeeding!
Finding some time for leisure reading. Whether it's a magazine or a book. I've found a few moments this week to get lost in the printed words.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
So which is it?
A couple of weeks ago some fellow MOPS and I were enjoying our annual Spa Day meeting and we were tasked with using some conversation starters. One of the most intriguing has kept creeping back into my head over the past several days. The question was: "Is it better to be a kid or an adult?" As moms to preschoolers who demand so much attention, every one's gut reaction was to say, "kid." Case closed, right? Then a couple of folks admitted they preferred being adults...I mean we get to do whatever we want, right?
Anyway, I keep lingering on the topic and figured I'd jot down these thoughts and sort of compare and contrast as well as hear what you think. Maybe you want to give your own take...
As kids I think I we are pretty much care-free. No stresses about finances, jobs or even parenting ("is he doing what other 2-year-olds are doing?" "what is the best school?") Most of your big decisions when you are a kid is whether to ask for a pink bicycle or a purple one, right?
On the other hand as a kid, someone is always telling you what to do, right? "Get dressed, do your homework, clean up your toys, eat your broccoli." Of course as an adult, you still have some authority (a boss, supervisor, etc.), but no one is going to tell you that you can't eat a little debbie for breakfast or anything. (Not saying I've done that, just an example.)
I often find myself wishing I could climb inside Jack's head and know exactly what he is thinking. Most of the time it's when he says things like "Jack happy" or "hey buddy" to his little brother. Other times it's when he is in full tantrum mode and nothing can console him. Either way, I do find myself thinking sometimes that he and especially Sam have it easy...eat and sleep whenever you want. I certainly appreciate the opportunity I have as a SAHM, but wouldn't I trade it to be a kid again?
I think for me the answer is no. Although some days I want to curl up with Jack for his afternoon nap instead of doing laundry, working on volunteer commitments or nursing Sam. But, I am incredibly blessed and thankful for all this life has given me. Was there ever a truer sense of companionship or a better best friend than the one I have now in my husband?
I guess in the words of Hannah Montana in an ideal situation we'd have the "best of both worlds." The feeling of running barefoot on a fresh cut lawn chasing fireflies on a summer (a word that loses a great deal of its impact once you are no longer a student) night or the rush of excitement as you creep downstairs on Christmas morning mixed in with the ability to make your own decisions and get a coke in the drive thru at McDonald's if you feel like it.
Anyway, these are my mindless ramblings. I'd love to hear your take on things. My apologies to those looking for pictures of cute kids or funny stories about said children...this blog will eventually return to its regularly scheduled programming :)
Anyway, I keep lingering on the topic and figured I'd jot down these thoughts and sort of compare and contrast as well as hear what you think. Maybe you want to give your own take...
As kids I think I we are pretty much care-free. No stresses about finances, jobs or even parenting ("is he doing what other 2-year-olds are doing?" "what is the best school?") Most of your big decisions when you are a kid is whether to ask for a pink bicycle or a purple one, right?
On the other hand as a kid, someone is always telling you what to do, right? "Get dressed, do your homework, clean up your toys, eat your broccoli." Of course as an adult, you still have some authority (a boss, supervisor, etc.), but no one is going to tell you that you can't eat a little debbie for breakfast or anything. (Not saying I've done that, just an example.)
I often find myself wishing I could climb inside Jack's head and know exactly what he is thinking. Most of the time it's when he says things like "Jack happy" or "hey buddy" to his little brother. Other times it's when he is in full tantrum mode and nothing can console him. Either way, I do find myself thinking sometimes that he and especially Sam have it easy...eat and sleep whenever you want. I certainly appreciate the opportunity I have as a SAHM, but wouldn't I trade it to be a kid again?
I think for me the answer is no. Although some days I want to curl up with Jack for his afternoon nap instead of doing laundry, working on volunteer commitments or nursing Sam. But, I am incredibly blessed and thankful for all this life has given me. Was there ever a truer sense of companionship or a better best friend than the one I have now in my husband?
I guess in the words of Hannah Montana in an ideal situation we'd have the "best of both worlds." The feeling of running barefoot on a fresh cut lawn chasing fireflies on a summer (a word that loses a great deal of its impact once you are no longer a student) night or the rush of excitement as you creep downstairs on Christmas morning mixed in with the ability to make your own decisions and get a coke in the drive thru at McDonald's if you feel like it.
Anyway, these are my mindless ramblings. I'd love to hear your take on things. My apologies to those looking for pictures of cute kids or funny stories about said children...this blog will eventually return to its regularly scheduled programming :)
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