In the Noticing
It's 7:30 on a sleepy Saturday morning. This is the only day of the week that I am home at this time, so I choose consciousness and a chance to enjoy the quiet alone.
I sneak out of my room and “feather-feet” across the living room. I notice how tidy and cozy it feels, and I realize, again, how much I love our little home. Less is more from some perspectives.
I make a cup of coffee and notice smudges of pizza thumb prints on my “lookeration” towel that hangs from the oven door, and I am instantly annoyed … but only for a second. That kid made supper for himself and his sister while his dad was on a date with me. I see gobs of things to be grateful for.
I rinse my spoon in the sink and from the kitchen window, I notice my patio plants are struggling. Too much heat and no one remembering to water them. They need my attention. Back-to-school is hard on plants and humans alike. I wonder what is fragile in my kids’ hearts and minds today … how can we remedy the too much and the not enough?
On my way to gather my laundry, I notice Philip's glasses and insulated cup on the corner of the counter. Retracing his steps, I imagine he was up late watching a show about old cars and when he felt tired enough to lose interest, he got up, rolled his favorite quilt into a heap, and turned off the TV. Then he set his cup down, put his snack bowl in the sink, took his glasses off, turned all but the counter lights off, and came to bed. He handled the safe arrival of teen drivers and the late-night questions and togetherness. This early bird is oh, so grateful for her night owl.
I lift the lid of the washing machine and hear from a distance bed-creaks of slumberers tossing and turning in the sunlight, and I notice the time. It will only be a few more minutes before the interactions begin. It will be several more days before it is this quiet at dawn.
I quickly take it all in, give sincere thanks to the God of good gifts, and I tell myself to remember.
For the times where there isn't space to notice, when heartache, uncertainty, and chaos crowd my days, I'll remember this piece of calm gratitude. This grateful peace. And press on.
🙏🏻Colossians 3:15-17
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
🙏🏻
“Let peace … be thankful”
“Let the message dwell … with gratitude”
“Whatever you do … giving thanks”
It's like a double-decker PB&J of allowance and faith … sticky with gratitude.🤍
