Friday, July 26, 2013

“Busy rushing ends in nothing”

I recently returned from a short vacation. My son and I went to Austin and rented a condo off of Lake Travis. We then headed to Houston to spend time with my family for a few days. I remember the day I was leaving; I was in such a hurry to get on the road. I thought the sooner I hit the road the sooner my vacation of getting away from all the craziness of my day to day would start. As I ran a few errands tense and in a hurry, my friend that noticed my anxious hurries said to me, “aren't you taking this vacation to alleviate yourself from your tensed lifestyle, why are you in a hurry”? I then thought about it for a second and realized there was no hurry. I was just so use to feeling that emotion that I applied it to every moment in my life! 
                          


That comment resonated with me my entire vacation. I realized while I had much peace on the inside, my life appeared a wreck on the outside.  Yes, my life is pretty hectic and I found that a lot of times I vent (sounds better than complaining) to friends about how busy I am and how I don’t have time for much of anything. Apart from insuring the success of a business, I am very emotionally attached to the success of other peoples’ lives. One of my greatest desires is that others succeed and become the best they can be. From my son, to trainers, friends, and strangers, I want very much for everyone I come across to find their biggest satisfaction through God, because I know that if God is first in their lives, then everything else will follow. 
So what do I do?  I take on more responsibilities in hopes of getting an award for Super Christian of the century. I lead a small group which requires preparation and studying. Occasionally I hold small prayer sessions at my home.  At my church, I am part of the alter/prayer team and I also attend a bible study at 8:30 am almost every Sunday morning. So my days and weekends are very busy. I understand that in order for me to become a great leader in this world, I have to be sure I equip myself with all the tools and resources to lead as best as possible. And even then I worry I am not good enough! I constantly remind myself that there is so much more room for growth and improvement. 

My vacation was so revealing, I learned so much about whom I am and that my worth is great in the eyes of Christ.
I love God’s lessons. I love how they slowly unravel truth before you over a series of life’s experiences. What good is it to be a business owner, leader, church goer, friend, or mother if all my responsibilities are done with anxiety, stress, and concern? I realized I had to let go of a lot of things. I can’t control anyone’s destiny; I am a chosen vessel being used for God’s glory. It is in His timing not my own. What faith can I claim to have if I worry everyday about the direction of my business, where my future is going, or if Susie Baker is attending small group this Sunday? How can I enjoy moments such as speaking to a friend about their day or a movie with my son when 100 other things are pending on my “to do” list? Easy, let go. Emotionally LET GO.  The practice of letting go is easier said than done, but these past few days I have been doing just that and I feel so relieved! I don't have to do it all, and that is ok. Whew! BBE had one of the best weeks when I was out. We didn't lack in sign ups and we had many inquiries and requests to become a part of BBE. I was worried about leaving for nothing! 

 I always said I trust in God, but he has taught me to link the connection from the mind into the heart to reflect in my actions and not just nicely float around in my thoughts. Today I can celebrate in all of  God’s great moments, big and small, and will continue to work on the practice of letting go to circumstances that are beyond my control, trusting that my Father up above has it all under control.  Whether your busyness stems from work, housewife, fun event planning, like a wedding, birthday party or anniversary, take time for yourself, those around you will appreciate it because they get to experience you in a better way. Going into my blog I started with “My life is pretty hectic”, yes it is, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I do have time, it's what I chose to do with my time and how I react and feel about the decisions I make to spend my time. I will rejoice in it all!  I will strive daily to attain this inward and outward peace.  I understand it's a conscientious, moment to moment, decision but well worth it. My attitude about all the responsibilities will be that of a grateful heart instead of a tired and overwhelmed attitude. 

“If you’re too busy for God you are much busier than God intended you to be”.~ unknown

Psalm 39
4“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be.
    Remind me that my days are numbered—
    how fleeting my life is.
You have made my life no longer than the width of my hand.
    My entire lifetime is just a moment to you;
    at best, each of us is but a breath.” Interlude
We are merely moving shadows,
    and all our busy rushing ends in nothing.
We heap up wealth,
    not knowing who will spend it.
And so, Lord, where do I put my hope?
    My only hope is in you.


Edith Olavarrieta 
Greatest lessons #goduseme