I wasn't ready for how busy the Fall was going to be. The kids' new school responsibilities truly gave me a taste of how most people live. Until now, we have tried not to overfill our plate. I am learning that sometimes, a plate full happens because of kids' school, extracurriculars, church, friendships, community, etc.
Practicing what I preach, I did what I could with what I had. I did not overextend myself with volunteering commitments because I did not have room to be stretched thin. I had to tell myself that it was okay not to be everything for everyone. What I did do, I did with all my heart.
All the kids were in the band. I learned a little bit more about that culture. I attended a lot of football games and managed not to buy anything from the concessions. One time I took a protein shake with me. The kids had fun and did a marvelous job. It was great to support them and to continue to grow as a family.
I fought and fought not to leave family devotionals behind because we were "busy." I prayed and asked God to ask for wisdom because I did not want to abandon this practice. We had devotionals whenever we could. Sometimes it was in the morning while the kids had breakfast, other times, it was while they were finishing dinner. The goal was to pause, read the Bible, and hear what God had to say to us.
God blessed us with a niece this Fall. It was an honor to be there the day she was born and to pray for her. God welcomed my cousin Harley home this Fall. He was one of the best people we knew. He lived for God all the days of his life. It is right that He is with Him now. We feel his absence but with hope in our hearts.
This Fall I could see my old approach to friendships changing. In the past, I would engage and engage with people who would not do the same thing for me. I noticed that I would be nice and polite, but I quickly realized that when people are not trying to go beyond niceness, I simply give them the respect they deserve instead of trying to earn their friendship for some reason.
Our oldest son had spinal surgery this Fall. We saw God's provision, healing, and comfort. We experienced his peace. We experience the kindness of His people coming and sitting with us, bringing us comfort and help in our time of need. I can't be grateful enough.
There were days I tried to understand why people were the way they were. God has been teaching me the way of gratitude for a few years. I learned that letting go of what I can't understand allows me to grow in gratitude. In the past, I would spend a lot of time trying to work through such frustrations. Letting go is the quickest way to find relief. Forgiving and focusing on God's blessings is freeing. It feels like my brain had room to think of more important things.
Professionally, this was the season to focus on what I could do. Excellence was my aim.
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