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Embracing Simplicity
The ordinary acts we practice
every day at home are of more importance
to the soul than their simplicity might suggest.
(Thomas Moore )
Embracing Simplicity
Jolita Peterson, Council Coordinator
For the past year, our family has been experiencing very lean finances due to difficult and unexpected circumstances with my husband’s career. Financial troubles can be emotionally overwhelming, at times pulling an entire family down into a quagmire of hopelessness and helplessness. For a while I fumed and fussed, resisted everything about our situation and watched my attitude descend into despair, along with our checking account balance.
Gradually though, as reality set in, I began to look for small blessings alongside the daily struggles of spending cutbacks. At Christmas, I rejoiced that I didn’t have to join the masses heading to the mall. I’m spending less time running errands since I’m buying less (and saving on gas at the same time!). I’ve been amazed at what we can do without.
Our family has grown stronger during this past year, no question. I’ve discovered the joy of making pizza with my kids instead of ordering take-out. Rather than renting or going to the movies, we’ve been reading together more often as a family. My husband offered to highlight my hair for me since a salon visit was out of the question – and we created another unforgettable bonding moment in our marriage (and he did a great job!). We’ve also been blessed by countless friends and family members – hand-me down clothing, shoes, prayers and support, and – during some very lean months – food, gas cards and homemade meals.
When I’m tempted to whine about our circumstances, I can always find something to be thankful for – health, friends, family, a roof over our head and food on our table. Do I get tired of telling my kids “no” when they ask for things? Of course. Am I looking forward to more financially stable days ahead? Absolutely. But here and now, in our present circumstances, I’m choosing daily to embrace simplicity and find joy in small ways.
Prayer From a Mother's Heart
Dear God, teach my children to be thankful in all circumstances.
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)
