Sunday we were given a small paper lunch sack and asked to put inside three things that help keep our lives balanced. We brought them to last nights Enrichment meeting and shared what we had. I was asked to speak for a few minutes about what those items mean to me.
( sorry 8th ward ladies for the repetition, but I wanted to share what I have learned about myself. )#1 I showed some papers that had my thought bubbles on them. They said such things as:
* ...She always looks so well put together....
*.....She is so kind hearted and thoughtful, I really need to do better....
*.....Her children are so well behaved, and mine????......
I think that we sometimes compare ourselves to others and end up feeling inferior. These are thoughts that I have all the time. I have come to the conclusion that as long as I am trying my absolute best in the things that I choose to do, then that's all I can expect of myself. Without selling myself short or not working hard, it's Ok not to be able to DO IT ALL. Importantly though, if there is someone you admire, you can follow the righteous example of others.
#2 Relationships. I have to feel as though I am trying my best in relationships, especially with my husband.
Elder Nelson said,
"An indispensable element of any successful family life is the cultivation of the love affair between husband and wife."
I loved that he called it a "love affair." (No one appeared too shocked when I said this.)
I need to feel like I am giving my ALL to my relationship with Brent. I need for my children to witness this devotion and I don't mind making them snicker or say,"OH, GROSS" to make sure they know I love their dad.
#3 I need to feel appreciated. In Elder Ballard's Conference address he urged the young children to:
"Put your arms around your mother often and tell her that you love her."
Maybe one day I'll get this, but for now I look for small expressions; a smile, an excited look. One of my children ran in after school the other day to tell me some exciting news. This is something was had been talking about and anticipating, and there was great success. The fact that they were so excited to share the good news with me meant an appreciation for efforts.
What was in my bag? According to this list, my bag would be empty. The things that bring fulfillment and balance to my life are not tangible. For me, the things I know, believe, feel, live and learn are what balances me out.
Not wanting to be a troublemaker, I put a few things in my bag to show what I enjoy.
1. My computer mouse for blogging and keeping up with friends and documenting our family's life.
2. My recipe index: I love collecting recipes and trying out new things.
3. A ceramic tile: I am on such a home improvement kick lately.
What brings balance to your life?
9 comments:
Eddie use to say Bravo when he saw Ed and I kiss.. It was like he was saying he wanted to see us together in love..
You were awesome last night. I really enjoyed every minute. So much fun. You know what brings balance to me, so I don't need to share. But I loved your list of thoughts and items. I was so proud of you..
Balance in my life comes from my attitude. If I am happy then nothing seems to get too out of control.
It really was a beautiful evening. Your talk hit a few nerves, in a good way. It is nice to be reminded of our own personal worth, and not to compare ourselves to others.
I love the things that you choose to represent balance. Those are three really important things. I love the "love affair" quote. Thank you for your insight.
I love this post! It's funny, a lot of the comments you made on #1 are things I think about you! I've always loved that when Brad catches us kissing he always says "All right!" I definitely think it's important for your kids to know you love each other, and you and Brent definitely do! My mom used to walk my dad out to his truck (even in the snow and freezing cold) when he'd leave for work and kiss him goodbye.
I really loved what you said about those things which balance you being intangible because you're so right! I'm sorry I missed what you said and I appreciate you sharing this.
Thanks for sharing this. I really enjoyed your thoughts. This sounds like it was a really neat Enrichment Activity! I need more balance in my life Debie. Thanks for your perspective on life! You are awesome!
That was so awesome thurs. night! Thanks so much for everything! You really put a lot of thought into that!!!
That was so awesome thurs. night! Thanks so much for everything! You really put a lot of thought into that!!!
Post a Comment