I saw something...that was senseless. I saw a person...He always worked hard. But he was never satisfied with what he had. He never asked himself, "For whom am I working so hard? Why don't I let myself enjoy life?" Ecclesiastes 4:7-8 NCV
"I gotta go,"said a college student whom I mentored. "If I don't get it all done, I'll be toast!"
"What's up?" I asked.
"I needed to read five chapters, finish a report, research job openings online, write a letter to my fiance and call my grandmother. It's her birthday."
"How much is left to do?" I asked.
"Well, I'm done with all that. But I really need to be further along. I gave up last night's waitressing job, tips and all, so I could get ahead."
Some of us feel like we're always on the brink of disaster even though we experience obvious success. Rather than congratulate ourselves for reaching our goals, we change the rules. Rather than be satisfied with our progress, we demand better. More! Harder! Faster!
We're accustomed to cracking the whip, but tired of continually missing the celebration. Altering the way we think and work feels strange-and scary. Yet with patience and practice, we can learn to stop mistreating ourselves, value our accomplishments and enjoy life. It really is acceptable to God.
Prayer....
Lord, temper my striving to work harder, faster, longer and MORE! I want to learn to take pleasure in my daily tasks and achievements. Help me find the fun.
Make it personal: Since your are going to live this day (week) anyway, how can you make it fun?
taken from It's a Wonderful (Imperfect) Life by Joan C. Webb
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This lesson reflects the way our society is today. Everything needs to be better than 2 minutes ago. We tend to never be satisfied with what we have and need the next bigger thing out there. I think that my life has slowed down since having Benjamin and I have been enjoying every small moment with this little guy. It has really made me stop and think what is really important in life. Our relationship with God, family and friends should always be first over toys and possessions. I am so thankful that God has restored my life and has brought this little guy into my life so that I may see the true beauty of life and being a mother.
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