Tag: Growth

It is Good

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on It is Good
It is Good

Have you ever had an idea hit you so hard that you couldn’t ignore it? Itch that instantaneously grabs hold and grows, giving life to your skin, causing it to rise in goosebumps. Thought that ignites like a flash point and spreads like wildfire, to the point it simply cannot be ignored. *Insert raised hand * That was me this morning. Internally shouting loud enough that I skipped the Brooks and Dunn segment I’d been waiting for (don’t judge), I got up, grabbed my laptop, and now you are up to speed…

 

“On Wednesdays we wear pink” played in my head. Many of you, mean or not, might recognize this line from the now 20-year-old movie. Because I’m a sucker for alliterations, this quickly morphed into “on Wednesdays we write,” right alongside make the bed Monday (change bedding), towel Tuesday (wash towels), vacuum Thursday (ok not an alliteration but only other weekday that has a “U” because I don’t wanna do it over the weekend), finish it Friday (finalize any tasks/projects that may have taken over the house)…get the point? A mind trick that helps keep me on a schedule, while accomplishing something that needs to be done, and I use the word “needs” intentionally.

 

Society loves the saying and excitement generated when something is deemed an “overnight success;” however, all the behind-the-scenes work eventually comes out at some point. A man behind the curtain moment, if you will. From Genesis, we learn about creation. “In the beginning God created…” God got to work day one, and on that very first day, after speaking light into existence, “God saw that the light was good” (v 3). Three verses. There was nothing. God created (essentially turned “nothing” into “something”), looked at it, and recognized its value. Here’s the itch that sprang me to life. 

 

How can I arrogantly expect something when I’ve done nothing? The very first five words in the Bible clearly show God worked. Let that sink in for a sec. Upon viewing His work, He knew it was good…because there was something to see. You can have the greatest of ideas, but without putting work into its inception, there is nothing. The world will never see or rejoice in your creativity. Work needs to be done, or it will remain forever formless in the recesses of your mind. 

 

On Wednesdays we write. Today I am putting in the work. I see it in plain black and white, but oh the pops of colors are beginning to swirl! It is good. Thank you, Lord.

Feed

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on Feed
Feed

“What’s wrong?”

“I’m nervous.”

“Why?”

“Because I’m always nervous before ‘x’…”

“It’s ok to be a little nervous, but sweetie, focus on what you want to feed.”

This reminds me of the two wolves parable. When a pair of similarly sized yet polar opposite wolves fight, who will win? The one that’s fed.

All too often, we focus on the wrong thing. Worse, it’s usually the reverse of what we want. Instead of working through the steps we know will put us on the right path, we wallow in the wrong places and wonder why we are coated in the very thing we want freedom from. We foolishly feed the wrong wolf.

It’s challenging to visualize something better when we are inundated by the inferior. Feel confident when cloaked in confusion. Unlike jumbo shrimp, internal oxymorons do not peacefully coexist—they only bring glorious defeat.

Why? Wouldn’t the desire for more override our “stuckness” in less? It should! But the bridge between the two is a nasty little letter word: work.

We don’t want to put in the work it takes to improve. The habit building practice on repeat required to reap the reward of reform. Running through the roadblocks or even better—face planting, getting up, wiping the mud off before it hardens, formulating a better strategy, then implementing. Rinse and repeat until it feels right. The only person who ever spoke their idea into existence wasn’t human, and yet He still worked! Chew on that for a moment…

Genesis Chapter 1 details God’s work in the beginning: He divided, named, produced, created…all action verbs! Only then, after six days did He rest…from all His WORK. Rest without work is a totally different four letter word: lazy.

“You say you doin’ work
But you’re asking where the couch at
How you doin’ work
When you’re asking where the couch at?”

TobyMac, “Till the Day I Die,” This Is Not A Test

Ouch! I felt that, talk about a gut punch.

Work is hard. I think we can agree on that as a common generalization, but it doesn’t have to be. It can simply be a process. Work as a means to an end. If we could earnestly get this concept through our thick skulls and make the mind shift, that’s genuinely the hardest part. From there, it’s one task at a time.

Focus on where you want to go, start with one step, then the next, and the one after that. Momentum is the best fuel, and once you get going, the easier it becomes. Just remember: focus on what you want to feed.

God did not create the Heavens, Earth, and all it’s splendor in a day. Where do we get the ridiculous notion that we can construct anything of lasting value with just a momentary flash of an idea without spending time working the kinks out? Think it’s our God complex. Ouf, that one hit was squarely on the jaw., and admittedly, I am staring directly into the mirror when I said it.

“The lazy will not get what they want, but those who work hard will.”

Proverbs 13:4 NCV

Dang, the punches just keep coming! But in truth, necessary, at least for me, to knock out my languid manner of thinking. I can think something to death, but it will never come to life without W-O-R-K. Trust me, I’ve tried!

So my friends, what’s the thing you’d like to do most? The thing you’d always envisioned for yourself? That reoccurring dream where you wake up smiling and think, “if only…” Our apathetic effort will get us nowhere. Let’s mold our mentality into something more—move past boldly claiming “that thing” for ourselves and begin the work process together. Will the effort be worth it? Absolutely! You won’t go it alone—I pledge to work along side you on my own endeavor. And if we do it right, our enterprise will encourage others. Focus on what you want to feed.

This Moment

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on This Moment
This Moment

Because we arrive late (again), I scan the general area where we used to sit. “Used to” is important since our invisible “reserved” marker is no longer observed. Our sporadic attendance of late, due to a variety of reasons, brings momentary panic as we proceed forward.

What if there aren’t any available seats near the aisle? Would we be able to settle in somewhere with minimal disruption? How am I to navigate through without making a complete spectacle of myself on crutches? Thankfully, we find a “suitable” location and join in the service during one of the last worship songs before the sermon begins.

I look up at my husband, who jumps right in singing the words on the screen. He seems content and focused on worship. My lips join in, however, my mind requires a bit of acclimation. Taking in my surroundings, I begin noticing all the things.

The person behind us is coughing, which is equivalent to the plague these days. Are they directly behind me? Do they seem “sick” or just have a tickle? Movement catches my eye, and I see someone I recognize, though he’s not sitting where he usually does. I wonder why? Was his “assigned seat” taken? Then the lighting bounces off the lead guitar with a flash, and I’m redirected toward the front by the beautiful melody offered in praise.

Pleadingly, I will my mind to focus on the purpose of our attendance: worship. Forgive me, Lord. I am a waif, easily distracted. My noticings should be of your glory and goodness, yet I find myself easily flustered by all that vies for my attention. Misled by meaningless noise.

Whom shall I follow? Let it be YOU Lord. Draw all of me to you. Remove all that fruitlessly clamors. Fashion an unbreakable strand upon my heart that only you control.

“Do not forget the agreement I made with you. And do not worship other gods. Instead worship the Lord your God. He will save you from all your enemies.”

2 Kings 17:38-39 ICB

I sat ashamed with the realization I had allowed the world governance over me. I deeply valued my ability to “notice things,” prided myself as an observer, placed undo importance on this; meanwhile, all this internal commotion caused confused misdirection away from things that truly matter. I’d relinquished power over my mind to the enemy, who rapidly fired flares beaconing for more attention, luring me further away from the most sovereign God.

I repent, and plead for forgiveness, knowing all the while it is already mine.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 1:9 NIV

Friends, I would be lying if I said it wasn’t a daily battle weeding out the false gods in my life. Things that I give pointless priority. And like most weeds, plucking does nothing when the roots remain intact—simply a temporary reprieve. Only complete removal, digging deep to eradicate all traces, will allow something more delightful to take up residence.

“We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back. Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect.”

Hebrews 12:1c-2a NCV

*sigh*

Maybe one day I’ll be strong enough to stop this battle once and for all, giving Him total dominion over me. There I go again, thinking this is about me—my strength, my ability. I can only offer this moment, fortified with the power of His Spirit, and rest with certainty that He will bridge the gap to the next on my journey closer to Him.

Let’s get REA/L together.

IMprove

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on IMprove
IMprove

When I pry my eyes open to see what time it is, my head begins to pound. I’m not sure if it’s just rebelling against the thought of getting out of bed or an actual headache. Well, let’s see…

I throw the covers off and swing my legs over the edge of the bed, eyes still closed. Once my feet hit the floor, I forcibly pry my lids open. So. Very. Bright. This sends an immediate signal to my head—thump, thump. I hesitate briefly, seriously considering crawling back into bed.

Not gonna do it (said in my best Dana Carvey as George Bush voice), and I open the doors to our bathroom. So. Very. Very. Bright. The brilliant morning sunlight fills the entire room. *Sigh* Ok, lemme see how I feel after I get dressed. Maybe it’s not a headache…

The chilly air necessitates long sleeves and pants. “Alexa, what is the current tempurature” I mumble—part of my daily ritual. “Currently, it’s 41 degrees,” she replies. Burr! Bright AND cold! Ugh, why did I say I’d go for a walk this morning?

Dressed, I walk into the living room and open the blinds. My eyes acquiesce to the additional blazing assault, calibrating as they continue to focus. My head decides it’s just unhappy I’ve ignored the multiple protests and falls in line as well.

Coffee. Must have coffee.

I sink into the couch with my favorite mug and let the warmth radiate into my hands. My mouth welcomes the smooth blend of beans with perfectly frothed milk. Can I simply sit here all morning? What if my waking partner cancels? Surely that would be my green light to stay comfortably situated and take the morning off.

As if on cue, my phone dings. Message reads: not feeling great and not ready to get up. *Sigh* Well, there’s my sign. Question is how should I read it?

As I consider, I continue sipping my coffee and start strolling. Lots of #10yearsChallenge and #21DaysOfFasting posts. Seriously? Ugh! FINE! I’ll get up and go on the stupid walk. “I’m taking you with me, let’s go” I say to our pup and grab the necessities for us both. She seems much happier about this than me, tail excitedly wagging.

I step outside. Did I mention it was 41 degrees? Burr! This Texas girl does not like the cold! Neither do my lungs, as they instantly protest the intrusion of blustery winter air. It’ll be fine, just a quick twenty minute walk I tell myself. I tuck the end of leash inside my pockets along with my freezing hands.

Once I got about halfway through my trek, my mind revisited those previous posts. What did I want to see in myself ten years down the road? For my husband and family? While I full well realize I cannot control their actions, I certainly have the power to influence them! Which got me thinking, instead of fasting, maybe I should consider incorporating.

January is the token month for resolutions started and usually dismissed, present company included in this faulty process. How many times have I said “this year will be different” and talked myself right out of any resolution or motivation? Usually in less than 21 days. Yes, pitifully, I’ll own it. *OUCH*

Improve, the voice inside me speaks with conviction. Improve! I think about the word, and because my mind works in acronyms, this revelation sobers me: I Must Prove to IMprove.

I must prove to myself I’m worth the work.

I must prove to my family that it’s possible.

I must hold tighter to my vision than vices.

Truly, what is twenty minutes (or more) of scrolling every day going to net me in 10 years? Will I look back and wish I’d wasted more of my time watching others live their lives? Does that actually benefit me in any positive way? I think not!

I want to write. I want to be healthier. I want to grow as a person. I want to do aerial yoga, like I saw some one post. I want to connect in real life with my friends. I want to pick an activity and have someone join me once a month. I want to travel.

I want more—for myself and my family—without the addition of useless stuff that I probably won’t remember, much less care about, come next January. Wow, this walk is proving to be of far greater value than I realized! As they say, “The proof is in the pudding.”

My steps become lighter, breathing easier, and body warmer. Despite my initial reticence to doing something so simple for myself, the Lord blessed me with this significant revelation.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”

Psalm 34:8 NIV

Lord, thank you for helping me resist the temptation to give up on myself and you today. You desire so much more for my life. I know in my heart you immeasurably bless me when I seek and listen to you. Hold me accountable, Lord, to improving and turning from my slothful ways—not just this month but well beyond. It scares me to offer myself up to your correction for any missteps ; however, I know you are a loving God and will make all things good.

That was difficult to put into writing and share. Now, as I conclude this attempt to capture my morning, I leave you with this REA/L thought: whatever time it is, however busy you may think you are, consider what your actions are proving and to whom.

Extraordinary

by 4letsgetrealtogether2 Comments on Extraordinary
Extraordinary

Can we all agree there are some touchy, hot topics that make us cringey? You know the saying, “never talk politics or religion in polite company,” because all too often, what ensues is anything but polite. We are deeply passionate about our convictions, which means, these types of conversations can result in a messy blood bath of hurt feelings. Ok, I think I’ve correctly set it up.

Here we go…

While around the dinner table the other night, one of “those” topics came up. As soon as the conversation started, I suddenly had the overwhelming urge to get up and do the dishes, which I despise. I wanted to hear how the exchange unfolded but definitely didn’t want to participate, because it was one of those “no win” subjects. Been there, done that—not fun.

This time, what I witnessed was a tremendous victory, for both participants. No one raised their voice, there were several “in my opinions,” and even a few “I can see your point.” The result? A completely civil dialogue of polar positions. What a rare gem and teachable moment, prompting me to say “I’m really proud of you!”

I should have added “thank you.” Thank you for showing me it’s absolutely possible: positively navigating a conversation that could have spiraled wildly wrong. Thank you for displaying unbelievable empathy: collaborating, so neither felt compromised.

I am proud of the good human we raised and the patience my husband provided. When you work together, genuinely listening instead of mentally listing potential rebuttals, you allow space to consider and come away less crushed. Speaking with conviction, in lieu of condemnation, grants the continuation of a civil conversation and takes courage. Loving each other well means conventional “compliance” looks different as you cultivate a gracefully evolved relationship. This is TRUE connection that extends well beyond the years spent under one roof.

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

James 1:19-20 ESV

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

Colossians 4:6 ESV

So in my REA/L moment with you today, no matter the situation or topic, take heed of His words. Saving face is infinitely more valuable than a temporary victory; because in any relationship, when this wisdom in applied, the reward is mutually persued longevity. An extraordinary and precious gift.

BRAVE

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on BRAVE
BRAVE

As a fun “Mom” thing, I check the Nation Day Calendar for fun things to surprise the family—brought home some delish cream filled donuts, gone out for ice cream, made sure we ate burgers, etc. While there seems to be a reoccurring food theme, there are a barrage of other things on calendar to celebrate. For example, today is National BRAVE DAY. I absolutely love this!

Merriam-Webster defines brave as “having or showing mental or moral strength to face danger, fear, or difficulty : having or showing courage” Think there are various parts of our lives that we all wish we were a bit more brave. Or maybe, you don’t see yourself as brave at all? Today is an excellent opportunity to evaluate our thoughts on being brave. Let’s dive into this together!

Do you wake up each morning and get out of bed? Do you share? Do you seek to better yourself? Do you have a loved one? Do you ask for help? If you answered yes to ANY of these, you indeed are brave my friend!

Waking up and being present to face the day’s challenges. Giving a part of yourself. Learning to be better. These all require courage, whether you believe it or not. Give yourself some credit here (also courageous 😉).

Bravery grows silently and exponentially. Seeing someone doing something we’d like to do, which spurs us to also try, is the seed of courage. Simply thinking “maybe I can” or “I’d like to give that a shot” is a brave bud bursting through its shell.

Ever said, “Hey, I’m going to X, wanna join me?” BRAVE.

Tackling anything new? BRAVE.

Trying again? BRAVE.

Trust me, you are BRAVE!

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

Winnie the Pooh

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.”

2 Timothy 1:7 CSB

“Scared is what you’re feeling. Brave is what you’re doing.”

Emma Donoghue

So in my REA/L moment with you today, on this National BRAVE day, I want you to hear one thing. I see you being brave, and I couldn’t be prouder of you. 😘

Unstuck

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on Unstuck
Unstuck

Do you find yourself saying tomorrow, soon, or someday in relation to realizing a positive change in your life? I do. Quite frequently, if I’m honest. I think about it, whether it be fleetingly or obsessively. Sometimes I’ll go so far as making elaborate plans or rigid schedules in search of change but no amount of talk or thought provides measurable forward momentum.

This leaves me feeling stuck, which sucks. Think we’ve all been there. But what do I usually do next? I pick apart all the why’s this always happens and round we go. A vicious cycle. Stuck.

Today, I had a revelation. The best part of being stuck is this: getting unstuck. Seriously. While completely obvious, it’s the undeniable solution to my problem. It’s actually my unvocalized yet ultimate goal— removal from an undesirable place and onto a better one. All it requires is one small change to get the ball rolling.

But here’s the thing: we have to actually remove ourselves from the undesirable place. Again, obvious; however, it’s far easier to stay planted somewhere familiar than uproot ourselves. While we may despise our current position, at least we know what to expect.

Isaiah 43:18 tells us “Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago.” Ie we don’t have to take up residence where we don’t want to be. God can transition us, if only we’d stop looking down the road of our past. By simply shifting our eyes, we are able to “Watch for the new thing [God is] going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! [He] will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there” (Isaiah 43:19 GNT). That’s incredibly good news friends! Truths we need to repeat to ourselves daily and share with others. All we need is one small change: where our eyes are focused.

“So let us throw off everything that stands in our way. Let us throw off any sin that holds on to us so tightly. And let us keep on running the race marked out for us. Let us keep looking to Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1b-2a NIRV).

God does not want to see us stuck! It pains Him when we are tethered to anything that separates us from Him. We were created to be in relationship with Him. Keep our eyes on Him. Run toward Him. That’s how we win!

“He is the one who started this journey of faith. [God sent His Son] And He is the one who completes the journey of faith [Jesus’ death and resurrection]” (Hebrews 12:2b-c NIRV). “So think about Him. Then you won’t get tired. You won’t lose hope” (3b NIRV).

So in my REA/L moment with you today, let’s pray this together: Lord, I’ve allowed myself to be stuck far too long. Thank you for revealing these strongholds today. I submit to you my stubborn ways and seek to shed them. Through the power of your Holy Spirit, grant me strength to lay these at your feet so I may be untethered. Turn my eyes toward you, Lord. I desire to run along side you. My hope is in you and you alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Dormancy

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on Dormancy
Dormancy

One of the things I love about this time of year is watching my Dwarf Japanese Maple trees change colors. It happens quite suddenly and all the beautiful bright red leaves can fall in the blink of an eye when a front blows through. This year, we had a brief cold snap followed by unseasonably high temps. I am thankful, as my breakfast table view has had extended privileges witnessing this magnificent transformation into dormancy.

One might find this process disheartening, since the leaves will eventually lose their connection, one by one, drifting away, causing the tree to become barren. But only temporarily. These Maples will be dormant, not lifeless. A brief season of suspended splendor before new growth appears.

Dormant, adj.

1. (of an animal) having normal physical functions suspended or slowed down for a period of time; in or as in a deep sleep. (of a plant or bud) alive but more actively growing. (of a volcano) temporarily inactive. (of a disease) causing no symptoms but not cured liable to return.

2. temporarily inactive or inoperative

Oxford dictionary

We too mimic dormancy, although often unknowingly. We let go of people and things that we once held close. We release, rather…withdraw, out of self preservation when it becomes too much. Too heavy. We need a rest. A pause. A dormant period. Call it the “flight” in the automatic physiological fight or flight response.

This is a natural defense mechanism. It is also totally subconscious. An effective way to assess our stress, as long as the dormancy period is brief and used appropriately. A slow down, not an abrupt cease desist, in our lives.

Unfortunately, few of us have the self awareness to recognize when we desperately need rest. We run headlong until we either fall down or hit the proverbial wall. There is nothing pleasant when this happens, for those witnessing or the unwilling participant. Hence the phrase “crash and burn.” It’s simply painful.

So in my REAL moment with you today, I would like to introduce the thought of including periodic personal dormancy as a brief and restorative process. It could be a break from social media, or an intentional interruption of constant on the go, or a day (maybe even two) without a mile long to do list. It can be beautiful change for others to behold. An unspoken lesson others learn. Who knows? It may even be the very thing that properly prepares us for our next season of growth.

Delicate Diligence

by 4letsgetrealtogetherLeave a Comment on Delicate Diligence
Delicate Diligence

After my first physical therapy appointment, I’m trying to convince my body and brain that PT is my new favorite. Unfortunately, it’s not working. My quads are crying from the sheer exertion required to attempt standing. My biceps/triceps are exhausted from taking the brunt of the work. My head is pounding from the sensory overload of it all, as well as the determined focus required to coerce connections that once came freely. While PT is not my current favorite, it is the vehicle I must diligently utilize in order to transport myself back to normal.

Normal. That word has certainly taken on a new meaning, hasn’t it? We are living in a time where so many things do not look or feel at all normal. Try envisioning giving birth, grieving a loved one, getting married, graduating, or any other significant life event in this unprecedented time. None of it seems normal, not everyday life nor any special occasion, at least, not what we used to call normal.

However, life either continues on or it doesn’t. I’d like to say the choice is entirely ours but that would be a supremely arrogant statement. Truth is, now more than ever, we are reminded how little we have total control over. Frustrating, isn’t it? You’ve probably heard this at least once before: all you can control is your attitude, effort, and communication. I know this is something often taught to athletes. But I’d like to add one more: your faith.

You see, when things feel anything but normal, our faith (or lack there of) is what will guide our attitude, effort, and communication. Will we seek solace in our faith or lash out with our lack of it? Will we allow His Holy Spirit to fill us with peace or unfruitfully fester from fear? These are choices absolutely within our control and will unequivocally influence our attitude, effort, and communication.

All of these, including our faith, require diligence. It is especially easy to lose focus when there are so many things vying for our attention, the worst of which are rattling around inside our heads. Or maybe that’s just me? Maybe I’m the only one with a mind battle at war, the two sides being the easy way or hard way.

The devil instigates his evil schemes inside our minds. He bends and blurs truth until it is almost unrecognizable. He wants us to take the easy, sometimes sinful, way to lure us into his web of deception. However, Jesus overcame the devil’s temptations, and so can we.

“My dear children, you belong to God. So you have defeated them because God’s Spirit, who is in you, is greater than the devil, who is in the world.”

1 John 4:4 ICB

What settles the score in the easy way versus hard way mind battle is inevitably our faith. What we believe in our core. Whether we will listen to what the world says or heed scripture, which tells us this:

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 NLT

Jesus tells us point blank we will face “the hard way” on Earth through MANY trials and sorrows. It won’t be one trivial trial or simple single sorrow. Scripture, unfortunately, says “many,” of both (hence the word “and”). The good news, however, is if you’ve read the back of the book, then you know who wins: we do, through the gift of Jesus and all the sacrifices He made on our behalf!

So my friend, while whatever you may be facing might not be your favorite, it may even be painful, it does not hold the power of having the final say. We do, through our faith in Jesus Christ, when we allow Him authority over our lives. It is in this delicate dance of handing ourselves over to Him, following His lead, and allowing His spirit to move us in the right direction that brings us through with the least missteps. Let’s open ourselves to His sweet melody while we sing along in praise, even if sometimes, it requires a little more diligence on our part!

One Percent

by 4letsgetrealtogether1 Comment on One Percent
One Percent

It’s the beginning of a new month. We are more than halfway through this year. As I was on my walk this morning, I thought, “What have I accomplished, and how have I changed this year?” It gave me pause and reminded me of something I recently read. If you improve by 1% every day, within a year, you will have improved by 365%. Let that sink in a minute…

For the most part, I believe we all want to improve, in some way or aspect of our lives. Often, it’s centered around our health or appearance. While I fit into this category as well, hence the morning walk, I realized how exponentially that one percent could grow into a whole body transformation. And I’m not just referring to physical appearance.

Our kids started “school” last week. Because this looks much different than any other year, I picked up a devotional journal called “100 Days of Grace & Gratitude” by Shanna Noel. I knew I needed to take on the posture of grace and gratitude if I also wanted our kiddos to model it. The devotional read is maybe a couple minutes long, at best. There are scripture references as well, and I usually will find one that resonates. My journaling doesn’t always look the same, but since it’s my journal, the only “rules” that apply are my own. The entire “process” takes about five minutes, ten if I’m extremely creative in my journaling. Today was day seven of one hundred. Thinking back to the one percent notion, I’ve already improved sevenfold. I’ve positioned myself to incorporate, or at minimum meditate on, grace and gratitude seven times through this book, and I do believe it’s beginning to take root.

This emerging habit prompted me to put on a pair of tennis shoes and head outside for some exercise. The fresh air gave me the opportunity to clear my mind. With each recurring step, I felt my muscles engage. I released the competitive desire to maintain a minimum speed, focusing on consistent movement instead. By the end, I walked just shy of two and half miles, which was significantly farther than I originally thought I’d be able to comfortably go. I spent my time praying, praising, and mentally preparing myself for the rest of the day. In doing so, the distance didn’t seem nearly as long. I was grateful instead of spent.

Tomorrow, is day eight. I plan to make the five to ten minute investment in grace and gratitude again, knowing that it’s effects will be longer lasting. I plan to lace up my shoes and take another walk. I’m also thinking about what other “system” I might incorporate to improve how efficiently I manage our home. While normally this thought might feel overwhelming, I’m thinking differently. One small step. One percent.

I don’t know about you, but I like this one percent notion. Seems infinitely more “doable,” doesn’t it? And as I build upon this one percent, I am thankful for the grace it affords. I’m not trying to conquer climbing my mountain in a day, just one percent of it. Tomorrow, I can continue onto the next percent. Doable. One step at a time.

“But each one of us has received a gift of grace, just as Christ wanted us to have it.”

Ephesians 4:7 NIRV

I’ve begun unwrapping His gift of grace, one fold at a time. And with each revelation, another awaits. Unlimited in His generosity. Goodness. Because that’s His nature. For which, I am incredibly grateful.