Sunday morning our pastor wrapped up his series on the 10 Commandments--it felt pretty good to hear a sermon and not feel convicted of sin. I think I am an exceptionally contented person. (And proud--but I'll get to that.) Daily I embrace an attitude of gratitude, recognize my blessings. Don't get me wrong, I've got my battles in the Big 10--the pride and anger territory is littered with minefields. But I don't covet. I can admire without feeling the need to acquire.
For example, I admire people's daughters. Little girls are precious and lovely and wonderful. Braided hair, pink cardigan sweaters, tea sets and painted toenails. I think of all the books I could pass along to a daughter, my favorite dolls, together we might build a dollhouse. But I feel happy about my three sons. I'm not overwhelmed by any urge to go get me a daughter. I totally accept God's plan in my life involves boys (despite practically obtaining a minor in Women's Studies).
I admire people's houses and decorating. I can go into my friend Mary's house and fall in love with the cool, clean lines of her new couch and her eye for color and simple but striking touches in a room. Likewise, I adore my friend Marni's house, filled to the brim and busy with art, tchotkes and antiques. I can enjoy both houses, yet return home needing to run to Kirkland's to "get" the look for myself. Admittedly, it probably helps that I hate shopping. Even so, I don't feel pressured to keep up with the Jones's.
Pastor mentioned how God allows "unanswered prayers," and referenced that Garth Brooks song. God gave me plenty of unanswered prayers--there was a job in a small high school that I thought I wanted to keep. He placed me in a bigger city, a bigger school, surrounded me with awesome friends and fantastic opportunities. Had I gotten my way, my life would not be as rich. Then there was that ex-boyfriend who I thought I couldn't live without. Now I see how life with him would've stifled me, choked me into a shell of the person I've become. God sent Mr. D who is superior in practically every way. I begged God on both knees to get one of my novels published. Watching my author friends get published, I now realize the amount of time they invest in marketing their published books and have to admit I couldn't do that job justice with my kids being so young. God knew best.
It's tough to always let God steer this life, but so many times I see the wisdom in the path I'm given.
Thank God--for unanswered prayers, for giving me an attitude of gratitude, for letting me off the hook with Commandment # 10.
Spill it, reader. Are you thankful for any unanswered prayers?
0 comments:
Posting Komentar