Back to School!
Monday, August 29, 2005
Back to School
In the last week or two, multitudes of parents have dropped lots of cash on back-to-school clothes and school supplies. Backpacks and lunch boxes have been conscripted for another year of dutiful service. Children of all sizes are starting back to school.
This year some children will learn to read. Others will learn to write in cursive. Some will learn how to multiply and divide numbers. Others will tackle algebra. Some will learn about the U.S. constitution. Others will learn about ancient civilizations. Every teacher and every parent hopes that learning in some form will take place for each and every child.
As I reflect on the classroom, I realize that the entirety of our lives is also a classroom. We are always learning. We are often forced to relearn the same lessons over and over again---until we finally "get it." I want to learn quickly, but often I, too, must be reminded of things I thought I had already learned.
Here are a few of the lessons I have learned along my journey---things I still occasionally need to be reminded of:
Remember, we are never too old to learn. Each day we all once again enter life's classroom. Anticipate today's lessons. Learn well!
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
This year some children will learn to read. Others will learn to write in cursive. Some will learn how to multiply and divide numbers. Others will tackle algebra. Some will learn about the U.S. constitution. Others will learn about ancient civilizations. Every teacher and every parent hopes that learning in some form will take place for each and every child.
As I reflect on the classroom, I realize that the entirety of our lives is also a classroom. We are always learning. We are often forced to relearn the same lessons over and over again---until we finally "get it." I want to learn quickly, but often I, too, must be reminded of things I thought I had already learned.
Here are a few of the lessons I have learned along my journey---things I still occasionally need to be reminded of:
1. Go as far as you can see. When you get there, you will see to go a little further. We never get to see the journey from beginning to end---just tiny increments. In other words, walk by faith and not by sight.
2. When a task looms big and feels overwhelming, get started. Do one thing and then one more. The next thing you know, it begins to seem manageable. Or as I used to tell my children, "It's a cinch by the inch, and hard by the yard!"
3. Remember to say "please" and "thank you!" Manners are never out of style. Gratitude and appreciation are timeless accessories. A grateful heart ends up blessing me more than the other person.
4. People are more important than accumulating things. Relationships take precedence over accomplishments or accolades.
5. Slow down! Enjoy the moment. Hurrying all the time creates unnecessary stress. Things eventually get done if they are truly important.
6. Don't fight back the tears. Tears are meant for our good. Let them flow when they need to.
7. Take responsibility for your own actions and reactions. Allow others to do the same. It's easy to take on responsibility that is not ours while abdicating our own responsibility.
8. Mothers who love their children always worry about their children regardless of how old they are. We try not to worry, but we do. We are just concerned for their well-being.
9. Take time for a "refill." Know your personal needs. Whether the need is physical, spiritual, relational, or emotional, take time for rest or renewal. When the cup is full, we have something to lavishly share with others.10. Don't be afraid to ask for help! No one knows it all. In turn, also be willing to share what you have learned with other fellow travelers.
11. Pray! Pray when you feel like it and when you don't. Don't try to do life without the guidance and intervention of the Heavenly Father!
Remember, we are never too old to learn. Each day we all once again enter life's classroom. Anticipate today's lessons. Learn well!
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Monday, August 22, 2005
Aging with Grace
Another birthday just rolled around for me this month. Birthdays have a way of reminding us that we are not as young as we once were. However, just a look in the mirror is all I need to see that the years are adding wrinkes to my face and gray strands to my blonde highlighted hair.
As women we experience tremendous cultural pressure to look younng and beautiful and stylish. The media and marketing gurus know how to tap into our insecurities at any age. We are told to "dress for success" and instructed "what not to wear." We may color our hair or try a variety of face creams. Some even opt for cosmetic surgery. But can we really compete with ever changing beauty standards or the latest styles and fashions imposed? The years will still take a toll on our physical appearance. So how do we face the aging process with grace and celebrate the life God has given us?
Most of us would agree that good grooming is a good thing. It's healthy to take a certain care with regards to our external appearance. Beyond that I want to focus more on an inner beauty that does not have to fade with the passing years. Here is what I wrote to describe the ageless beauty that I desire:
As women we experience tremendous cultural pressure to look younng and beautiful and stylish. The media and marketing gurus know how to tap into our insecurities at any age. We are told to "dress for success" and instructed "what not to wear." We may color our hair or try a variety of face creams. Some even opt for cosmetic surgery. But can we really compete with ever changing beauty standards or the latest styles and fashions imposed? The years will still take a toll on our physical appearance. So how do we face the aging process with grace and celebrate the life God has given us?
Most of us would agree that good grooming is a good thing. It's healthy to take a certain care with regards to our external appearance. Beyond that I want to focus more on an inner beauty that does not have to fade with the passing years. Here is what I wrote to describe the ageless beauty that I desire:
.Ageless Beauty
By Marlene Depler
My soul need not shrivel
nor passion for life diminish
with the passing of time.
Agility of heart.
Quiet wisdom.
A steadfast hope.
Resilience amidst struggle.
Character finely chiseled.
Priorities no longer obscure.
No senseless conformity.
Pretenses diminishing.
Truth embraced without shame.
A spirit ever expanding and deepening:
Ageless beauty—my desire
(c) Marlene Depler
Monday, August 15, 2005
Not as Planned
It was past the optimal time for planting a garden. Nevertheless, I still wanted some fresh produce before summer's end, so I headed off to one of our local garden stores. I picked up some tomato, pepper, squash, and watermelon plants. Then I headed for the seed packets, grabbing green beans, beets, and zinnias.
Within a couple of days, I had the plants and seeds nestled in the brown earth. Then I waited for the seeds to sprout and the plants to produce their first blooms. It wasn't long before the beans emerged from the soil. But soon they began to produce curly-Qs that vined around each other. This was my first clue that something was amiss. In my hurry, had I picked up pole beans instead of bush beans? I thought I had purchased bush beans. In my 35 years of marriage, I had always planted bush beans, and what I viewed in my garden was definitely not normal.
Another week went by, and I was convinced that I had indeed planted pole beans. It was too late to uproot them and plant again if I wanted a harvest before first frost. What was I to do with this mess of tangles vines? I had to figure out a way to make the best of a situation that was not as I had planned.
I went looking for anything and everything I could find to give the vines some support. In the garage I spied a few extra tomato cages. Then I spotted some decorative stakes in my flower beds. I stuck this random assortment into the ground all around the bean patch and coaxed the vines around my make-shift arrangement.
Life is often like this gardening experience: things don't always turn out quite as planned. Some choices made in good faith go awry for one reason or another. Other times things happen that are completely beyond our control. Sadness, sickness, and financial stress are never written in the script we've written for our lives. Disappointment, death, and divorce aren't on anyone's list of desired destinations. Loneliness and various losses, both large and small, aren't ever part of our plans.
My agenda never includes angst of any sort. I didn't choose for one of my children to struggle all the way through school. It was not in my plans for my daughter and her family to move to Bosnia. I wouldn't have chosen for my mother to pass away so suddenly. It wasn't as I had envisioned when a book contract that was promised for over a year never came to fruition.
What do we do when things don't go as we planned? When hopes are dashed? When we encounter the unexpected? We pray and ask God for grace and strength and wisdom. And much like my vining beans, we gather all the available support of family and friends as we attempt to make the best of the situation.
Sometimes we will never understand why certain things have happened. We just do our best to trust that God is in control. Other times we move on, and eventually we come to see a blessing in what has transpired. As I am now gathering an amazing harvest of beans, I am now thinking I may plant pole beans again next year! My unplanned bean patch may have taught me something valuable.
I'm also reminded that most of life's blessings are also unexpected and unplanned. We could never plan for such Divine extravagance. I could fill volumes recounting all the blessings God has sent my way. There was the surprise food shower given for my husband and me in our early days of marriage. And I certainly didn't expect that someone would pay my hospital bill when our second child was born. (We didn't have insurance at that time.) I hadn't planned that a writer friend would show up on my door step with a beautiful bouquet of roses on a day I was feeling less than "writerly." Neither had I planned on the outpouring of compassion when my mother passed away.
Things will not always turn out as planned. Yet as we face the unplanned and all the uncertainties of life, we can still be certain of the grace of God. May we live according to his gracious PLAN!
Within a couple of days, I had the plants and seeds nestled in the brown earth. Then I waited for the seeds to sprout and the plants to produce their first blooms. It wasn't long before the beans emerged from the soil. But soon they began to produce curly-Qs that vined around each other. This was my first clue that something was amiss. In my hurry, had I picked up pole beans instead of bush beans? I thought I had purchased bush beans. In my 35 years of marriage, I had always planted bush beans, and what I viewed in my garden was definitely not normal.
Another week went by, and I was convinced that I had indeed planted pole beans. It was too late to uproot them and plant again if I wanted a harvest before first frost. What was I to do with this mess of tangles vines? I had to figure out a way to make the best of a situation that was not as I had planned.
I went looking for anything and everything I could find to give the vines some support. In the garage I spied a few extra tomato cages. Then I spotted some decorative stakes in my flower beds. I stuck this random assortment into the ground all around the bean patch and coaxed the vines around my make-shift arrangement.
Life is often like this gardening experience: things don't always turn out quite as planned. Some choices made in good faith go awry for one reason or another. Other times things happen that are completely beyond our control. Sadness, sickness, and financial stress are never written in the script we've written for our lives. Disappointment, death, and divorce aren't on anyone's list of desired destinations. Loneliness and various losses, both large and small, aren't ever part of our plans.
My agenda never includes angst of any sort. I didn't choose for one of my children to struggle all the way through school. It was not in my plans for my daughter and her family to move to Bosnia. I wouldn't have chosen for my mother to pass away so suddenly. It wasn't as I had envisioned when a book contract that was promised for over a year never came to fruition.
What do we do when things don't go as we planned? When hopes are dashed? When we encounter the unexpected? We pray and ask God for grace and strength and wisdom. And much like my vining beans, we gather all the available support of family and friends as we attempt to make the best of the situation.
Sometimes we will never understand why certain things have happened. We just do our best to trust that God is in control. Other times we move on, and eventually we come to see a blessing in what has transpired. As I am now gathering an amazing harvest of beans, I am now thinking I may plant pole beans again next year! My unplanned bean patch may have taught me something valuable.
I'm also reminded that most of life's blessings are also unexpected and unplanned. We could never plan for such Divine extravagance. I could fill volumes recounting all the blessings God has sent my way. There was the surprise food shower given for my husband and me in our early days of marriage. And I certainly didn't expect that someone would pay my hospital bill when our second child was born. (We didn't have insurance at that time.) I hadn't planned that a writer friend would show up on my door step with a beautiful bouquet of roses on a day I was feeling less than "writerly." Neither had I planned on the outpouring of compassion when my mother passed away.
Things will not always turn out as planned. Yet as we face the unplanned and all the uncertainties of life, we can still be certain of the grace of God. May we live according to his gracious PLAN!
“...not a day goes by without his unfolding grace.”
2 Corinthians 4:16
(The Message)(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Friday, August 05, 2005
Choosing a Frame
I was delighted to find two unframed prints I thought would be great for the bathroom I am sprucing up. The colors seemed just right to blend in with the green and pink shades of the new towels. Now they needed frames!
Hobby Lobby was having a sale on frames, so I took them both and went to look for frames. There were many to choose from. I tried this one and then that one until I found one that seemed to make each picture really "pop." I can't wait to see the finished product!
Many say that the frame is as important as the art being framed. Some frames have a way of emphasizing the beauty or colors, while another one makes the picture appear dull or unappealing. A few years ago I had a large picture in our family room matted in blues with an antiqued platinum frame. While walking through a store one day, I saw the same print matted in dark green with a gold frame. The look was so different! And truthfully, I didn't like it nearly as well.
Our lives are much the same. We get to choose the frame that encompasses our daily round. The two that I've mulling around in my mind are DUTY and DESIRE. It's so easy to look at the day that lies before me and frame it with DUTY. My first clue is my word choices. I use words like should, must, ought to, have to, and gotta'.
When we frame the day with DESIRE, our words change. We say want to! Or "I choose to...." But how do we turn our have to into want to when we don't like certain tasks?
I'm not all that crazy about ironing. I can look at it with a should mentality. But I don't have to iron. My husband and I could wear wrinkled clothes. The desire comes in realizing that I want nicely pressed clothes to wear.
The same is true of so many other things. I can choose to focus on my desire for a neat and tidy yard as I go out to pull the weeds. I can frame household cleaning with my desire for a comfortable and clean environment. I can see the care I give to family members through the frame of my desire to show them love.
But what about a job someone's doesn't really like? It to can be framed with the desire to bring home a paycheck---a desire to provide for ourselves and our families.
Rememeber, we get to choose the frame. So for today, let's choose to frame our lives---and our lists with DESIRE. The landscape of our day will become more vivid and enjoyable.
Note: My pictures are still at Hobby Lobby, so I can't show them to you. Instead, I will have a photograph of two other prints that I plan to frame.
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Hobby Lobby was having a sale on frames, so I took them both and went to look for frames. There were many to choose from. I tried this one and then that one until I found one that seemed to make each picture really "pop." I can't wait to see the finished product!
Many say that the frame is as important as the art being framed. Some frames have a way of emphasizing the beauty or colors, while another one makes the picture appear dull or unappealing. A few years ago I had a large picture in our family room matted in blues with an antiqued platinum frame. While walking through a store one day, I saw the same print matted in dark green with a gold frame. The look was so different! And truthfully, I didn't like it nearly as well.
Our lives are much the same. We get to choose the frame that encompasses our daily round. The two that I've mulling around in my mind are DUTY and DESIRE. It's so easy to look at the day that lies before me and frame it with DUTY. My first clue is my word choices. I use words like should, must, ought to, have to, and gotta'.
When we frame the day with DESIRE, our words change. We say want to! Or "I choose to...." But how do we turn our have to into want to when we don't like certain tasks?
I'm not all that crazy about ironing. I can look at it with a should mentality. But I don't have to iron. My husband and I could wear wrinkled clothes. The desire comes in realizing that I want nicely pressed clothes to wear.
The same is true of so many other things. I can choose to focus on my desire for a neat and tidy yard as I go out to pull the weeds. I can frame household cleaning with my desire for a comfortable and clean environment. I can see the care I give to family members through the frame of my desire to show them love.
But what about a job someone's doesn't really like? It to can be framed with the desire to bring home a paycheck---a desire to provide for ourselves and our families.
DUTY brings heaviness to our step.
DESIRE quickens our pace.
DUTY equals obligation.
DESIRE equals opportunity.
DUTY speaks of chores.
DESIRE speaks of choices.
DUTY is monotonous drudgery!
DESIRE is eager aspiration!
Rememeber, we get to choose the frame. So for today, let's choose to frame our lives---and our lists with DESIRE. The landscape of our day will become more vivid and enjoyable.
Note: My pictures are still at Hobby Lobby, so I can't show them to you. Instead, I will have a photograph of two other prints that I plan to frame.
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Friday, July 29, 2005
Can't Get No Respect
Left, right, left, right. One leg stretches out in front of the other as each foot hits the sidewalk. My walk becomes an unexpected reverie.
We sure take our legs for granted, I think. Without them, I wouldn't be out here walking in the glorious sunshine.
Nevertheless, I've always regarded my legs to be—well, let's just say less than satisfactory. I've never given them much respect.
Too short. One small mole. Two scars. A roadmap of spidery blue and purple veins. Thick thighs. Cellulite lumps.
In spite of my disparaging thoughts, these hinged limbs of bones and sinew, threaded with nerves and blood vessels, and covered with soft skin, have taken me everywhere I have ever been in this life.
I know I'm not alone. I'm certainly not the only one who is a bit contemptuous of one body part or another. It seems to be a common malady. Some think that they're too flat chested or too big-breasted. Too tall or too short. Too fat or too skinny. Others hate their noses or ears or lips. We look in the mirror with disdain. Thus, we keep the revenue streaming for anyone who promises us a bit more beauty with some new "miracle" cream, liposuction, plastic surgery, Botox and collagen injections, or diet and exercise plans. (Recently, I received an email advertisement that said, "Lose weight while you sleep!" How's that for a gimmick!)
When will we learn to be comfortable living in our own skin? When will we begin to respect our God-designed bodies? As for me, it's time to appreciate these legs and to give them the healthy dose of respect that is long overdue.
Yes, today, the steady rhythm of my gait is a reminder of the gift of legs. I shall never win a beautiful leg contest, but these legs have been loyal, lifetime friends. Their fifty-plus years of service should warrant a full-blown, all-out celebration. No longer will I withhold the gratitude and dignity that they so deserve.
(SORRY! NO PHOTOGRAPH OF MY LEGS---just my walking shoes!)
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
We sure take our legs for granted, I think. Without them, I wouldn't be out here walking in the glorious sunshine.
Nevertheless, I've always regarded my legs to be—well, let's just say less than satisfactory. I've never given them much respect.
Too short. One small mole. Two scars. A roadmap of spidery blue and purple veins. Thick thighs. Cellulite lumps.
In spite of my disparaging thoughts, these hinged limbs of bones and sinew, threaded with nerves and blood vessels, and covered with soft skin, have taken me everywhere I have ever been in this life.
These legs first learned to crawl—then take unsteady steps.Upstairs and downstairs, outside and inside. My legs have taken me everywhere I've ever been. How then can I be so contemptuous of them? Where would I be without them? Would I want to trade places with someone who is confined to a wheel chair? Yes, for too long I have taken for granted the mobility they provide for me.
These legs jumped rope, played hopscotch, climbed trees, and rode a bike.
These legs played hide-and-seek with my cousins.
These legs walked me down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams on my wedding day.
These legs have walked back and forth late at night comforting a colicky baby.
These legs have strolled the sandy shores of the East Coast, West Coast, and the Gulf of Mexico.
These legs have sauntered along the Thames, Seine, and Blue Danube Rivers.
These legs have traipsed through castles, cathedrals, and catacombs.
These legs climbed high mountain trails.
These legs paced the floor of a hospital's ICU.
These legs that I have disrespected have walked more miles
than I could imagine.
I know I'm not alone. I'm certainly not the only one who is a bit contemptuous of one body part or another. It seems to be a common malady. Some think that they're too flat chested or too big-breasted. Too tall or too short. Too fat or too skinny. Others hate their noses or ears or lips. We look in the mirror with disdain. Thus, we keep the revenue streaming for anyone who promises us a bit more beauty with some new "miracle" cream, liposuction, plastic surgery, Botox and collagen injections, or diet and exercise plans. (Recently, I received an email advertisement that said, "Lose weight while you sleep!" How's that for a gimmick!)
When will we learn to be comfortable living in our own skin? When will we begin to respect our God-designed bodies? As for me, it's time to appreciate these legs and to give them the healthy dose of respect that is long overdue.
Yes, today, the steady rhythm of my gait is a reminder of the gift of legs. I shall never win a beautiful leg contest, but these legs have been loyal, lifetime friends. Their fifty-plus years of service should warrant a full-blown, all-out celebration. No longer will I withhold the gratitude and dignity that they so deserve.
(SORRY! NO PHOTOGRAPH OF MY LEGS---just my walking shoes!)
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Thursday, July 21, 2005
On Hospitality
Many people have crossed the threshold of my front door over the years of my adult life. I wonder if everyone who entered experienced hospitality under my roof. What exactly is HOSPITALITY anyway? What does it take to extend it to others?
I pulled some books off the shelf to do a little investigating. Webster defines hospitality this way:
"given to generous and cordial reception of guests"/"offering a pleasant or sustaining environment"/"readily receptive."
While perusing the dictionary, I also noticed the words HOSPITAL and HOSPICE. Isn't it interesting that these words are derived from the same root word as HOSPITALITY. Hospital and hospice both speak to me of care and comfort.
Searching a bit further, I found that the Greek word philoxenia is often translated hospitality. Philos means to love as friends, hence Philadelphia---the city of brotherly love. No doubt, love is a key component if we are to give hospitality. I'm beginning to get the picture.
Joan Chittester says that hospitality is "an act of a recklessly generous heart." Isn't that a great way to put it?
Henri Nouwen believes that listening is "one of the highest forms of hospitality." I had never thought about it that way.
After mulling over these thoughts and definitions, I am led to conclude that we must first have a hospitable heart before we can extend hospitality to others. This requires intentionality on our part. We invite people into our home and into our lives so we can provide a comfortable, caring environment where our guest then feels safe in allowing us to enter into his or her life. Yes, this is what I want to give my guests! I want to create a home in which family, friends, and neighbors are welcomed and valued.
But what stands in the way of hospitality? Sometimes we think we are too busy. Many think their homes are not clean enough or decorated well enough. Do we wait to achieve domestic perfection before we welcome another into our homes? If we wait for our homes to be immaculate, then we will miss the joy of sharing our lives with others. So don't wait for perfect!
I'm convinced that if we first open our hearts and then open our doors with a smile, our guests will surely feel welcomed and comfortable. Add to that a listening ear over a cup of coffee or simple meal and someone will leave feeling blessed---I'm quite sure of it!
I pulled some books off the shelf to do a little investigating. Webster defines hospitality this way:
"given to generous and cordial reception of guests"/"offering a pleasant or sustaining environment"/"readily receptive."
While perusing the dictionary, I also noticed the words HOSPITAL and HOSPICE. Isn't it interesting that these words are derived from the same root word as HOSPITALITY. Hospital and hospice both speak to me of care and comfort.
Searching a bit further, I found that the Greek word philoxenia is often translated hospitality. Philos means to love as friends, hence Philadelphia---the city of brotherly love. No doubt, love is a key component if we are to give hospitality. I'm beginning to get the picture.
Joan Chittester says that hospitality is "an act of a recklessly generous heart." Isn't that a great way to put it?
Henri Nouwen believes that listening is "one of the highest forms of hospitality." I had never thought about it that way.
After mulling over these thoughts and definitions, I am led to conclude that we must first have a hospitable heart before we can extend hospitality to others. This requires intentionality on our part. We invite people into our home and into our lives so we can provide a comfortable, caring environment where our guest then feels safe in allowing us to enter into his or her life. Yes, this is what I want to give my guests! I want to create a home in which family, friends, and neighbors are welcomed and valued.
But what stands in the way of hospitality? Sometimes we think we are too busy. Many think their homes are not clean enough or decorated well enough. Do we wait to achieve domestic perfection before we welcome another into our homes? If we wait for our homes to be immaculate, then we will miss the joy of sharing our lives with others. So don't wait for perfect!
I'm convinced that if we first open our hearts and then open our doors with a smile, our guests will surely feel welcomed and comfortable. Add to that a listening ear over a cup of coffee or simple meal and someone will leave feeling blessed---I'm quite sure of it!
"Generosity begets generosity. Stinginess impoverishes." Luke 8:18 The Message(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Note: If anyone feels like it, I would like to know more about the places where you have experienced hospitality.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
It's the Small Things
Sometimes the smallest things get under my skin! Pesky mosquitoes or flies zooming around in my space. A tiny pebble in my shoe. A stain on the front of a white blouse. Stubborn price stickers that aren't easily removed---and when they do, they leave behind the sticky adhesive. The tailgaters out on the Interstate that insist on riding my bumper at 70 m.p.h. These are a few of my irritants. What little things annoy you?
I've also noticed that it's the little things that have great potential for bringing us blessing---that is if we aren't too preoccupied to notice. Yet all too often we wait for the spectacular while overlooking the wonder and blessing of small, ordinary things all around us. Here are a few things that bring me a bit of joy when I pay attention:
Let's not wait for mountain-top moments when we could sip on joy in the middle of our ordinary days.
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
I've also noticed that it's the little things that have great potential for bringing us blessing---that is if we aren't too preoccupied to notice. Yet all too often we wait for the spectacular while overlooking the wonder and blessing of small, ordinary things all around us. Here are a few things that bring me a bit of joy when I pay attention:
A cup for fresh brewed coffeeWhat would make your list? What brings you a smidgen of pleasure in the midst of daily living?
Fresh sheets on my bed
A hug
A smile
Kind words
Sunsets
The first ripe tomato in my garden
Candles flickering
A bite of chocolate
A robin preening in my bird bath
A cheery tune
A phone call from family or friends
Wildflowers
Let's not wait for mountain-top moments when we could sip on joy in the middle of our ordinary days.
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
No Such Destination
I have tried for decades to find the quaint little village of "All Caught Up." I can see it in my mind, but it isn't on any map. Nevertheless, I'm in love with the false notion that if I work hard enough, smart enough, fast enough, and long enough, perhaps one day I will find myself zooming over the mountain and into a beautiful lush valley. Just before entering a peaceful little town, I will see the sign, "Welcome to All Caught Up!"
Are you like me? Do you wish that for once all your work and chores were completed? All the laundry done, folded, and put neatly away. All the closets clean and organized. The basement all neat and tidy. The garage swept. The bills paid. The desk cleared of all that random paperwork. All correspondence completely up-to-date. The weeds pulled. The lawn mowed. The windows washed. The refrigerator filled with marinated salads and a casserole just waiting to be popped in the oven. Fresh cherry pies cooling in a row on the counter top. And the feeling of delight and satisfaction that at least for once, everything is "all caught up."
Instead everywhere I look, something calls out for my attention:
I walk through the laundry room. Look at that heap of laundry. I really must tend to that.
Then I see the stack of dishes by the sink. I had better get those in the dishwasher right away.
My eyes fall on my kitchen desk. Oh, I need to get those insurance claims filed and the checkbook balanced.
I think of a friend who needs some encouragement. I need to call and see how she is doing.
Oh, I had better figure out what I'm making for dinner and thaw some meat.
I really must get to my office and write that article I promised to have done this week.
On and on it goes, this never-ending dialogue with myself. The chastisement for what is not done rather than the pleasure of what has been accomplished. Just yesterday I weeded and cultivated the soil around my plants in my six garden beds. Immediately, I began to think of other things that still needed to be done: the roses need fertilizer, two rose bushes wait in their pots to be planted, a flower bed needs weeded. But I was tired and hot, so I stopped. As I entered the house through the laundry room, I saw the laundry that needed sorting and washed. That was just the beginning of endless things indoors that clamored for attention. Then I caught myself.
Marlene, your garden is weed-free for the moment. Enjoy what you HAVE done. Stop always focusing on the next task at hand. So I went back outside to enjoy the garden beds all neat and tidy. Everything else would have to wait for a few moments. Then I came inside and cut two large chocolate chip brownies to take to my neighbors who had just come home from putting their dog down. Then I called a friend who has been having some health challenges. (Neither one was on my list!) I continued my day with a variety of other tasks. But when the day ended, many things were still undone---as always.
Since my mental to-do list will never end, I must find a way not to let things yet undone become my cruel taskmaster. There must be a way to gracefully move through the day seeing my work as sacred and accepting the rhythm of my daily round. I want to find joy in what I have accomplished and to thank God for the strength and energy he has given for today. For today, I determine to give up the search for the mythical destination of All Caught Up. What about you?
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Are you like me? Do you wish that for once all your work and chores were completed? All the laundry done, folded, and put neatly away. All the closets clean and organized. The basement all neat and tidy. The garage swept. The bills paid. The desk cleared of all that random paperwork. All correspondence completely up-to-date. The weeds pulled. The lawn mowed. The windows washed. The refrigerator filled with marinated salads and a casserole just waiting to be popped in the oven. Fresh cherry pies cooling in a row on the counter top. And the feeling of delight and satisfaction that at least for once, everything is "all caught up."
Instead everywhere I look, something calls out for my attention:
I walk through the laundry room. Look at that heap of laundry. I really must tend to that.
Then I see the stack of dishes by the sink. I had better get those in the dishwasher right away.
My eyes fall on my kitchen desk. Oh, I need to get those insurance claims filed and the checkbook balanced.
I think of a friend who needs some encouragement. I need to call and see how she is doing.
Oh, I had better figure out what I'm making for dinner and thaw some meat.
I really must get to my office and write that article I promised to have done this week.
On and on it goes, this never-ending dialogue with myself. The chastisement for what is not done rather than the pleasure of what has been accomplished. Just yesterday I weeded and cultivated the soil around my plants in my six garden beds. Immediately, I began to think of other things that still needed to be done: the roses need fertilizer, two rose bushes wait in their pots to be planted, a flower bed needs weeded. But I was tired and hot, so I stopped. As I entered the house through the laundry room, I saw the laundry that needed sorting and washed. That was just the beginning of endless things indoors that clamored for attention. Then I caught myself.
Marlene, your garden is weed-free for the moment. Enjoy what you HAVE done. Stop always focusing on the next task at hand. So I went back outside to enjoy the garden beds all neat and tidy. Everything else would have to wait for a few moments. Then I came inside and cut two large chocolate chip brownies to take to my neighbors who had just come home from putting their dog down. Then I called a friend who has been having some health challenges. (Neither one was on my list!) I continued my day with a variety of other tasks. But when the day ended, many things were still undone---as always.
Since my mental to-do list will never end, I must find a way not to let things yet undone become my cruel taskmaster. There must be a way to gracefully move through the day seeing my work as sacred and accepting the rhythm of my daily round. I want to find joy in what I have accomplished and to thank God for the strength and energy he has given for today. For today, I determine to give up the search for the mythical destination of All Caught Up. What about you?
(c) 2005 Marlene Depler
Friday, July 01, 2005
An Invitation to Rest
When I was in kindergarten decades ago, we each had our own rug to spread out on the floor for rest time. My mother made my rug and stitched my name on it. I was quite proud of my peach and green mat.
Our teacher required everyone to lie down and close our eyes a few minutes each day. When the teacher tapped us on the head, we could get up. I didn't appreciate this forced activity as a five-year-old, but after moving into adulthood, I would have welcomed it.
In our performance-driven culture, it seems that periods of rest are not highly regarded. Many even think a good night's sleep can be shortchanged. Just think how much more we could all get done if we each denied ourselves a couple hours of sleep each night! But are productivity and performance our only goals?
I have run across several articles in recent months on the subject of sleep. Research is now touting the value of sleep in promoting good health. One study I read said, "Sleep Essential for Creativity." Scientists are now validating our need to be well-rested.
I'm not a scientist. Nevertheless, I am continually reminded of the importance of rest, both sleep at night and other short interludes of rest amidst our busy days. God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. God instituted the Sabbath rest so the Israelite nation would take a day off to worship and rest. In the New Testament, Jesus invited his disciples to "come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest for a while."
It's easy to to disregard our body's need for rest. Just last night I was tempted to stay up late to write this blog because I knew I had a full day ahead. I reminded myself to practice what I preach!
There are times where things beyond our control inhibit our sleep and ability to rest. To name a few: a new baby, illness, menopause, and unexpected emergencies. During times like these we cope the best we can. The problem is in letting this become a way of life---and then relying on four shots of espresso and adrenaline just to make it through the day.
Rest is an invitation to slow down, change our pace, take a deep breath, refocus our priorities,and refresh ourselves. So pull out your kindergarten mats---or tip your head back, close your eyes, and enjoy a few moments of "sacred idleness."
And tonight go to bed at a decent hour!
Our teacher required everyone to lie down and close our eyes a few minutes each day. When the teacher tapped us on the head, we could get up. I didn't appreciate this forced activity as a five-year-old, but after moving into adulthood, I would have welcomed it.
In our performance-driven culture, it seems that periods of rest are not highly regarded. Many even think a good night's sleep can be shortchanged. Just think how much more we could all get done if we each denied ourselves a couple hours of sleep each night! But are productivity and performance our only goals?
I have run across several articles in recent months on the subject of sleep. Research is now touting the value of sleep in promoting good health. One study I read said, "Sleep Essential for Creativity." Scientists are now validating our need to be well-rested.
I'm not a scientist. Nevertheless, I am continually reminded of the importance of rest, both sleep at night and other short interludes of rest amidst our busy days. God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. God instituted the Sabbath rest so the Israelite nation would take a day off to worship and rest. In the New Testament, Jesus invited his disciples to "come away by yourselves to a lonely place and rest for a while."
It's easy to to disregard our body's need for rest. Just last night I was tempted to stay up late to write this blog because I knew I had a full day ahead. I reminded myself to practice what I preach!
There are times where things beyond our control inhibit our sleep and ability to rest. To name a few: a new baby, illness, menopause, and unexpected emergencies. During times like these we cope the best we can. The problem is in letting this become a way of life---and then relying on four shots of espresso and adrenaline just to make it through the day.
Rest is an invitation to slow down, change our pace, take a deep breath, refocus our priorities,and refresh ourselves. So pull out your kindergarten mats---or tip your head back, close your eyes, and enjoy a few moments of "sacred idleness."
And tonight go to bed at a decent hour!
"To be well-rested is a blessing, not a waste of time."
-Richard A. Swenson, M.D., The Overload Syndrome
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Monday, June 27, 2005
From the Ashes
Huge billows of black smoke rose from the mountains to the northwest of our home. Storm Mountain was ablaze. Firefighters were called in to contain the fire and attempt to protect the homes in the area.
After the fire was extinguished, my husband and I drove up the steep, winding road to see the damage. Acres and acres of beautiful trees were now only blackened sticks on the sides of the mountain. The devastation was sickening.
That happened two summers ago. Just two weeks ago, we took another drive up Storm Mountain. Blankets of lavender, white, yellow, pink, fuchsia, and red wildflowers covered the once marred mass of rock and earth, along with green native grasses. Charred tree trunks still stood as a memorial of what had once happened. Nevertheless, unbelievable beauty had risen from the ashes of a horrible fire.
Firestorms of disappointment, heartache, loss, and pain also come into our lives. We all end up singed, scorched, scarred, and charred---to some degree or another. Our own poor choices may bring ugly consequences. Things beyond our control may ravage us unexpectedly and leave our lives in rubble. Yet the message of Storm Mountain is one of hope. After a time, beauty can once again return from the ashes of our lives by the wonderful grace of God. HOLD ON TO HOPE!
After the fire was extinguished, my husband and I drove up the steep, winding road to see the damage. Acres and acres of beautiful trees were now only blackened sticks on the sides of the mountain. The devastation was sickening.
That happened two summers ago. Just two weeks ago, we took another drive up Storm Mountain. Blankets of lavender, white, yellow, pink, fuchsia, and red wildflowers covered the once marred mass of rock and earth, along with green native grasses. Charred tree trunks still stood as a memorial of what had once happened. Nevertheless, unbelievable beauty had risen from the ashes of a horrible fire.
Firestorms of disappointment, heartache, loss, and pain also come into our lives. We all end up singed, scorched, scarred, and charred---to some degree or another. Our own poor choices may bring ugly consequences. Things beyond our control may ravage us unexpectedly and leave our lives in rubble. Yet the message of Storm Mountain is one of hope. After a time, beauty can once again return from the ashes of our lives by the wonderful grace of God. HOLD ON TO HOPE!
Friday, June 24, 2005
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