Perseverance versus Defeat

Looks like Jimmy's toy is just out of his reach. Poor Jimmy.

Have you ever been in a similar situation in which you can see what it is you want, maybe even need, but you just can't quite attain it? How do you know when to hang in there and when to give up? In Jimmy's case, it looks like his paws will never grow long enough to reach what he wants. Since he doesn't have thumbs (and probably deductive reasoning), he can't get something to pull it closer or move the appliance. So he should probably give up. Or should he? Maybe there's another possibility. Maybe some kind soul (like his owners) will come along and help him. Perhaps the solution to your problem you have today means you need to ask for help. I know, I know. I don't like to ask for help either. Recently, I hired someone to mow my yard. It's a little thing but what a difference it makes to my peace of mind. My worry and tiredness over this one little task is so diminshed. Most problems aren't this simple. If you need some help today, and you realize no person can help, then run to the Lord. Not only is He always there, He doesnt' charge you anything.

Are You "Good Enough?"

It's easy to listen to our doubts about our abilities. It's easier to come up with an excuse as to why you can't do something difficult. Often, the message we hear is "you're not good enough."

I was thinking about that lie we are too eager to believe this morning. It's what I often hear people say as to why they don't/won't come to Zumba class. While I know it's not for everyone (what?), as an instructor, I want to say "of course you're not good enough - I'm not good enough!" The point is to keep moving, and maybe, time after time, you improve. No matter what, I remind everyone (incluing myself), have fun! My dogs aren't good enough. In fact, they drive me crazy when they are doing "something wrong." I know when they eat something disgusting, it's bad for them so I yell at them to stop. Still, I love them, despite their flaws (and weirdness). Doesn't the Lord tell us the same? "Of course you're not good enough. That doesn't matter. My Son was good enough and when you run to Him, I see you through Him." Sometimes I think God just wants us to move a little everyday, and if we can, improve as we grow closer to Him in his transforming love. Either way, we should enjoy the dance.

Life Without Compromise

Most cats dig catnip. They see it, they imbibe. They do not practice moderation, self-control or if it compromises their principles.

Go for it, Captain. Wouldn't it be nice if we could do the same? See Oreos, eat bag. No problem. Then there are those situations that demand our judgement in the grey areas. For instance, right now I'm trying to decide if a song is okay for the exercise class I'm doing. It's sort of on the fence. I want to use it, but since I don't feel 100% confident that it's "okay," then the answer is probably no. Isn't it? Sometimes I talk myself into something being acceptable when deep down I know it isn't. Yes, plenty of people would say it was fine or "not that bad" but if it goes against my grain, then I probably should skip it. If I compromise in the little things, failing to stick to what I know is true, then it's easier to keep doing that. It will also be easier when the stakes are higher. I need help! Do I look to the Hills? No! I look to the Lord. I need guidance, insight, wisdom. Then I need the strength to stick to my convictions. These are things I can't do on my own. What about you? Is there something niggling away at your conscience? What will you do about it?

Take It Easy

It's the end of April. I don't know about you, but this month has been the fastest one ever.

A long time ago, my Type A personality thrived on productivity. Now, it doesn't seem as important. I like to not be busy. Interesting things happen. Valuable relationships develop. Spring brings many demands on property owners - mow the yard, weeds, gardening, not to mention all the repairs and cleaning. And it seems like it all needs to be done yesterday. "Many hands make light work." This year, I'm determined to not be overwhelmed. When those emotions threaten, I let them happen but sort of ignore the tyranny of the immediate. It will get done, in its time. If you find yourself in over your head, perhaps you can find one person to help with one task. You can run to the Lord and ask for a calm spirit, mulitiplication of your time, and a realization of priorities. First things first. Everything else falls into its place. Get on that chaise lounge with some lemonade and give yourself some perspective!

Getting with a Routine

This is Dooley (hi Dooley). For reasons his owner and I can't understand, he runs to the door of the kennel upon arrival.

It isn't because he can't wait to see the other dogs and play with them. It isn't because he will get an extra special treat. Dooley loves routine. Or at least that's my theory. He runs right into the space with his bed and settles. He doesn't protest being away from his owner or being off his big comfy couch. He just wants to get on with the predictable schedule. Dooley, I can relate. I love my routine. When I go on vacation, my tiny brain begins to etch out a schedule for the day. It's really annoying because when I'm on vacation, I'd rather not have a schedule. While routine is good and comfortable, it certainly can be restricting. It can even be our idol, freaking out when it's disrupted (that's me). Breaking our routine can bring very good and creative results. At the same time, a lack of any routine often results in complete inactivity (which is great for vacations). So what's the answer? Routine or not to routine? Perhaps it comes back to the question of balance in our lives. Structure and flexibility are both important. Are you a more structured or more routine-free person? How do you keep balanced?

Taking Your Faith for a Roadtrip

Here's Jimmy at the local hardware story (hi Jimmy!).

As part of his socialization and training, Jimmy goes to a variety of settings. Obedience trainers tell owners to practice commands not just in the back yard, but in areas that are new and provide many distractions. That can be said for our faith as well. It's easy to say you believe something, but quite another to adhere to it when faced with many distractions and unexpectedly strong temptations. When we succeed in sticking to our faith, we become stronger. However, the opposite is not true. It is NOT true that when we fail, giving into temptation or abandoning our beliefs, it can be nothing more than a temporary set-back. When we realize our failure, it does no good to hide it. Instead, we need to run to Jesus. That's where we experience forgiveness and grace. That is a more valuable lesson.

Alone in a Cage

(Editor's Note: Blogger has changed its formatting, which apparently means they've omitted the paragraph breaks that are in the original post below) Over the weekend, a new dog stayed for one day in the kennel. As soon as his owner left, he looked at me and immediately put his front paws on me. It was evident he was insecure. After getting him situated, I could tell he was still a bit nervous. When I led him into the kennel, I stayed, closing the door. This seemed to calm him since I was in the same situation as he found himself. Afterall, how bad could it be if I was next to him? To me, this is a picture of what Jesus did for us. He came down and experienced how you and I live daily - with all its difficulties, joys and foibles. He showed us how to navigate life and triumph over death. Perhaps you're having a bad day, week, or year. There is One who understands where you are, has experienced it, and is happy to be right by your side as you walk that path.