Dig a Little Deeper

A long time ago, I went to college to get a degree in Elementary Education.  A professor told us, "You can find something good to say about any child.  You may have to look a little harder in some children, but there is always some good there."

She was right.

I had my share of students that were easy to compliment.  And then I had those students whose gifts were buried a little deeper.  It was my job to discover those hidden gems.

The lessons I learned, both as a college student and as a teacher, have served me well as a mom.

Some days, it's so easy to find the good in my children.  Other days.... well, not so much.

But a lot of it depends on me.

I can focus on the fact that Ryley has misplaced or cracked a couple of her camera's memory cards and we've had to buy more.  Or I can celebrate the fact that she's capturing our family history for generations to come.

I can focus on the fact that no matter how many cute storage containers I buy to hold Reagan's yarn, she's never going to keep it organized like I wish she would.  Or I can celebrate the fact that she's using her knitting talents to raise money for children in Guatemala.

I can focus on the fact that Lily is not able to do many of the cute little arts and crafts projects I did with her big sisters when they were younger.   Or I can celebrate the fact that she likes to scribble with markers.

So many times, my perspective is what makes the difference in my day.

I can weep, gnash my teeth, and wish things were different.  Or I can wipe my eyes, quit bellyaching, get up off my fanny, and start digging for that hidden treasure.

I can feel sorry for myself that I'm still changing Lily's diapers or I can change her, tickle her tummy, and get a big belly laugh.

I can grudgingly pack my daughters' lunches or I can pack a surprise treat or stick in little notes or comics.

I can cook supper and be miserable about it or I can play "Name that Tune" with my girls while working.

I can curse the laundry or I can keep all the money that I find in the washer and dryer and treat myself to a mocha.

"This is the day the Lord has made.  We will rejoice and be glad in it."  (Psalm 118:24 NIV)

Even better, The Message says, "let's celebrate and be festive!"

I don't know about you, but I like a party.

So grab a shovel and let's dig for the good stuff.

Then we can do as Kool and the Gang advised:  "Celebrate good times, come on!"