Perspective

Ever have a bad day? Ever get caught in the cycle of wishing things were different than they are? That totally happens to me.

Lately, I find myself wishing:

-Our budget would balance

-Our house would sell

-My book would get published

-Our money stress would ease up

-Tuition was free

-The economy would improve

-Layoffs would end

-My kids wouldn't talk back

-My house was cleaner

-My dog was groomed

-My daughter would eat better

-My son would eat more

-Our laundry would get done

-There would be less paper mess in our home

-I could lose weight AND eat

-I would be less tired

-I would read more

-I would write more

-I would be less stressed, less worried, less...

One worry builds on another. One stress exposes the next. It is easy to spiral down into a place where all I see around me is another thing to wish about... I hate that. Does that ever happen to you?

This morning as drove into the parking lot at school with my kids, I prayed with them for their day. With my heart weary from worry, I focused on the little things. Little things that can lead to great gratitude.

I prayed, "Dear Lord, thank you for the color of the leaves. Thank you that we have shoes on our feet. Thank you that our school is safe. Thank you that we have lunch to bring. Thank you for teachers who care deeply for students. Thank you waking us up, for giving us breath, for this one, simple day. In Jesus' name, Amen."

When I pulled out of the parking lot, I noticed the leaves more than the lightness of my wallet.

That's probably as it should be.

Blessings on your day.