Give It Up!

I'd like to give a shout out to something that is usually left out of the conversation but has such a big impact. Let's give a shout out to giving things up. Yes, I said it. Instead of getting and keeping, let's give some things up.

Let's give up being irritated at the same thing that happens all the time. So the light is ALWAYS red when you are there and it is the LONGEST light ever! Take that time to pause and reflect on your surroundings. A pedestrian walking, the a/c or heat that works in your car that keeps you comfortable, the beautiful sky, the melodious song playing on the radio, the colors, the landscape. Take this time to breath in a moment where all you can do is stop. Give up being irritated at the light (or the kids yelling in the car.)

One night we were at church and my oldest got injured. They were doing a skit with ropes or twine or something and boys will be boys...my child had visible injuries on his face and back. The kids' director was apologetic. I tongue in cheek said, if it's too quiet in our house I tell the kids, "Will someone please hurt someone? It just doesn't feel like home unless there's some fighting going on." Accidents happen. People fight. It's not all daffodils and rose petals.

Give up gasping that kids hurt each other and parents roll with it. Give up trying to be perfect and demanding your kids be perfect (or pretty gosh darn close to it.) Fathers at the ball field yelling at their kids playing a game are taking things too seriously. Give it up. The kids are learning many things playing a team sport. Don't ruin it by adding stress to it. Give it up.

So many things we can give up so that we can have more. It's an oxymoron. I love oxymorons and the ironies of life. When we give up irritations, false expectations (that set us or others up for failure), and unreasonable demands, we get peace. We get to see things we missed because our eyes were on getting not giving up.

Today think about what you can give up. You will feel lighter. The burden won't be so heavy. Your steps will have more intention. It will feel so good. Today I'm giving up trying to get my point across. I will listen more and consider other's point of view before trying to come up with an answer. I might even get crazy and say to someone - or my husband, "You are right." (gasp!!)

So let's give it up for giving  it up! 

#giveitup #gasp #irritations #moment #soright #quiet #shoutout #angels
#angelbooks #whereisyourangel #angelwatchingoverme #elf