My heart is grateful. Yes, I have cancer. And I’m getting chemo. But Christmas is still awesome. Santa is still coming. š Still, Jesus was born. And God is on His throne in heaven. He is worthy of our trust despite these challenging bumps in the road. He makes us strong when we are weak. He provides just what is needed. Even when that isn’t what it seems like.
So, when the dog bites, the bee stings, the Scotch tape gets all stuck together, the piece of wrapping paper you cut is too small, your kids are being jagoffs and don’t appreciate anything, the phone will not quit ringing, you burn the turkey, someone else gives your kid the gift you couldn’t wait to give him (oh, no she did NOT!) you forgot the asparagus (that’s a real thing I did) Aunt Martha says something rude about your daughter’s hair, Uncle John has had too much egg nog. You spill wine on your white shirt, that stupid inflatable snowman will NOT cooperate, someone points out you’ve put on a few pounds. You’ve run out of money, you’ve run out of breadcrumbs, gas and baby wipes and you’re about to run out of patience…we’ve all been there.
Breathe. Acknowledge the frustration. Notice if you can improve the situation or if it’s outside your control. Fix it if you can. If not, let it go, move on. Now stop. Look around the room until you begin to see the good: your kids enjoying each other and sharing toys. A hard working hostess flawlessly serving her guests, a gift given out of love and generosity. New love. Old love. Delicious cookies. A teenager helping his grandmother. Warm glow from the fireplace. Togetherness despite our differences.
So, quit your bitchin’. Look for the good. It’s right in front of you, Silly. God is on His throne. You are blessed. And you are loved.
