~Simple Things~

Beautiful sunset from our vaycay

One of the best things about vacation is that you notice things that typically wouldn’t capture your attention.  Last week while vacating at my in-laws, my husband and I were always up before the rest of the house because our little bit doesn’t acknowledge vacation time.  While I was laying around watching her run back and forth through our temporary living quarters, I was struck by how much amusement she found in the most trivial things.  She would run to the window and scream, “Look at the swimming, Mommy!” (This would be what she called the pool).  Then she’d dash across the room and spot her jelly shoes, “Oh…my jellies!”  At which point, she’d scoop up her shoes and squeal as she hugged them to her chest.

It was so precious to watch her get so excited over the little things and it got me thinking how oftentimes in life we rush around to the point that we miss all the small stuff that could bring us great joy.

With the daily grind bearing down on your back, what is that blissful moment that you are shoving to the side because you don’t have, or better yet, won’t take, the time to appreciate?

Every morning there is beautiful sunrise commanding your attention, do you ever pause to admire its splendor?  What about the rest of God’s creation that He has woven together for us to enjoy, are you taking it for granted?  Take just a moment today and soak it in.

Perhaps where you are most guilty is moments missed with your family.  When you spouse wants just a little more snuggle time in the morning, don’t be so engrained with routine that you can’t push all that aside for a little more love.  How about your mini-mes?  When they ask for just one more kiss at bedtime, even if it is just a stalling tactic, lay it on them!  If Mom or Dad calls at the most inconvenient time of day, so what, think of all the times they dropped what they were doing for you and return the favor for a change.

There is so much more to this life then the hustle and bustle that we have allowed to consume us.  Most of what we think matters most is really insignificant.  What difference does it make if you are always on time, make the most money and always have the latest gadgets if you have absolutely no joy in your life.

Be like my Bella.  Go through your day looking for every possibility to be thankful and squeal with delight.  God wants us to be happy.  Our very existence is proof of that.  Don’t waste another day hurrying through this life.  Pause and give God a standing ovation for the glory He has surrounded you with.

“For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and JOY in the Holy Spirit.”

(Romans 14:17 NLT)