The older I get the more I realize that happiness comes in enjoying the simple things. I used to think that when my husband made more money that we could enjoy this and that but when we were finally able to it would sometimes be a let down, surely my expectations were too high.
I also used to think that if we were able to purchase more things that would bring happiness (what new wife doesn't think this??) but when I was able to do that I found myself overwhelmed with too many things to take care of, organize and they even stole time away from me. Not what I expected.
Now in my ripe old age of 36 I find myself doing weird things and gaining much pleasure from it. Such as:
--Smelling my babies and children when they hug me to get the full effect of each moment.
--Smelling roses, flowers and stopping to look and talk about them (who had time to do that before?)
--Enjoying sounds of nature (birds singing, oceans roaring)
--Going on walks, looking at the sunset
--Not rushing around, slowing down to notice things around me
--Being "in the moment" with my family and not having my mind preoccupied somewhere else
I guess the things that mattered once before just did not have enough substance to it. Once they were attained they were quickly forgotten. I've felt like I've lived many lives (living on the 'wild side' as an unsaved person) and was never happy but now...now I am totally complete. I no longer have to long or yearn for something that I am searching for because I found it all in Christ. And He has blessed me with something so precious---a family. He has also given me health to enjoy it all. And that is a blessing.
8 comments:
I just want to take a moment to tell you how much I enjoy your blog each day, you are a blessing to me! Marie
I totally agree with you.I also find myself holding my children a minute more,loving the smell of a sweaty little boy after a long day of play,watching the birds out my bathroom window and wondering if the Lord sent it to that branch just for me to admire.
Isn't it wonderful to iron an apron and just enjoy the day the Lord has made.
I have been in and out of the hospital for varios reasons, the last time for well over a week. I felt so disheveled and dirty and, well, sick. I couldn't get out of bed for anything. On the fourth or fifth day, I had a new nurse. She was cheerful and pleasant and, when she came to check me in the morning, she brought a big tub, a pitcher, a washcloth and some baby shampoo.
For the first time since I was in the hospital, and several days prior, I was able to wash my hair. It felt amazing! I think of that time everytime I wash my hair now. It's such a simple thing, washing your hair or brushing your teeth, but it brings me happiness now.
Your post reminded me of a Hallmark movie I really enjoyed -- "The Magic of Ordinary Days", have you seen it?
Kimberly
I agree with Marie...thank you for being a blessing in my life and teaching me as a younger lady of the Lord.
I enjoy learning and this is a great blog to learn from :)
Marie--thank you for visiting and encouraging me as well!
Toodlebugs--Sounds like you know just what I am talking about. Though I haven't ironed an apron lately (not with 8 blessings to tend to!), I know just what you mean!
Kimberely--No, I haven't heard of that movie but thanks for mentioning it, I will keep an eye out for it. I know that washing my hair has always made me feel much better. I am sorry to hear you were in the hospital so much, I hope that season is over for you. I'll be praying that you'll have good health for all of God's good things.
Dawn Marie--It is an honor to be a blessing to you. My readers are a huge blessing to me and a great encouragment as well!!! Many blessings to you...
Beautiful post and blog!
Thank you for the comment! That's a wonderful post. I think a lot of times we try to put all our effort and energy into making special occasions really special. We don't take the time to savor the ordinary everyday things. And those are the things that are most important. :-)
Blessings,
Amanda
I was reading this post this afternoon - and smiled. My husband and I were just talking about this very thing!
I expressed to him how I am liking slowing down and taking notice of the little things more; but in so doing I am finding that I am cultivating my walk with Christ deeper. Why? Because I am noticing all the little blessings He sends each day. All those heartfelt thought towards my Saviour would have been lost had I not taken the time and mindset to SLOW DOWN. Thanks for sharing.
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