When I was in high school, I remember making a list (sometimes mentally and sometimes literally) of all the negative things that happened to me that day.
"A bird pooped on my head on the way to the bus; my pager screen cracked when I dropped it (be kind, yes I'm dating myself there); my pet rat died overnight; I forgot we had an algebra test; I forgot my lunch money at home, etc."
What I didn't realize was my focus was on the negative. Granted, it wasn't so that I could use it as an excuse to be sad. Most of the time, I just found it astounding the sheer amount of madness that could ensue in just one morning by 10AM. Still, it was my circumstances that were dictating my actions, my conversations and quite honestly my fate.
I once heard a great analogy: If a kid is riding along on a bike and sees a rock in the path, his/her inclination may be to stare directly at that rock and repeat to themself "don't hit the rock; don't hit the rock..." But, if their focus is on the rock - chances are, that's exactly where they're headed.
My family has recently found ourselves in the midst of several trials - seemingly big ones. I thought back on this story I just shared with you, realizing we did nothing to "attract" these circumstances we are in. These particular challenges are not ones we could have avoided by working harder or being "better people." They just are.
So, now we get to control what we can, which is our attitude and our response. Our children are watching as we move through this season; what better accountability is there?! We've had some encouragement from outside observers. Some have noticed our faith taking a front seat as we disclose our story and current circumstances. The greatest compliment someone could ever give me is responding with "Wow. I had no idea." For me, this means I haven't been wearing my overwhelm or my frustration on my sleeve, but rather genuinely enjoying the time we have away from our thoughts and spending time with those we care about.
I know you've found yourselves in difficult situations; perhaps you're in a similar season currently. I can't help but realize how well-timed this week's Random Act of Kindness Challenge is! Don't be afraid to share with those you trust what you're going through. It's priceless to wake up to an encouraging text or a random phone call from a friend asking how things are going.
For the others, just keep smiling and your difficulties will eventually pass. Spreading joy, and getting your eyes off the rock in the midst of your own dark times is one of the most healing activities I can think of.
'Til next week,
Keep lifting one another up! See you on Facebook,
Lindsay
