Refreshing and Renewing

For the first time in more years than I can remember, I spent time alone - really alone. No husband, no kids...just me and the dog. Despite a lengthy to-do list I was incredibly lazy, taking naps at will, sometimes staying up late and sleeping late, sometimes going to bed early and rising at dawn. Whatever tripped my fancy, that's what I did. Sadly, I think I kicked into "selfish" mode more quickly than even I expected...and I ran with it. I was reminded of the fact that selfishness doesn't get "used up" like the gasoline in your car. If fact, I found it to be quite the opposite with my self-indulgence only breeding more self-seeking desires. I have an endless supply of selfishness...something I'm sure my family can readily attest to.

However, I did attempt to redeem bit of the time by renewing my vision for our family, our school and my purpose at this particular juncture in my life. I had already started Keeping House and then began A Life that Says Welcome. Through these books I was reminded that though the tasks I perform seem small and insignificant, they can have profound, life-long effects on my children and husband. I was challenged to treasure the life I have, value the mundane by seeing it in a whole new light and dig a little deeper in an effort to serve those inside and outside my household. I snooped around some blogs, most notably Girltalk where I was smacked up side the head (again) with the challenge to be more hospitable.

So, in the weeks ahead I will be seeking to be intentional in my hospitality and in doing that I'll also be serving my family with renewed vigor and...well...happiness. It's a privilege to do what I do and my actions need to reflect that truth. I'm reminded of the childhood song, "if you're happy and you know it clap your hands...if you're happy and you know it then your face will surely show it..." Sadly, I fear my face doesn't always reflect what I truly desire to communicate to those around me.

And as if to seal the work God was doing in my heart, someone on a Yahoo group sent this link to encourage us homeschool moms. It really does say what I realized during my time alone...and says it much more articulately and creatively than I ever could. If you're a mom who feels overwhelmed...you might want to grab a tissue. Enjoy!