Thursday, June 21, 2012

Things I've Learned So Far

"I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw..." Proverbs 24:32 (NIV)

Eight minutes.

That's how long we had to write down "the things we've learned so far."

After receiving the assignment from our fearless leader, the members of my writers group put pen to paper, our hands in motion like inchworms across the page, only at lightning speed.

Here's my list...just as I wrote it. Unedited. (Hence, the order may not be that of true priority.)
  • Laugh more. Even at myself.
  • Forgive. And forgive. And forgive.
  • Sometimes life's not fair. Instead of asking, "Why me?" ask "Why not me?"
  • We tend to think everyone else's life is perfect. It's not.
  • Be brave. Take risks.
  • Hope. Believe. Trust God.
  • Work at what you hope to accomplish.
  • Naps are good. Sometimes you need to write (or work) instead.
  • Nurture friendships.
  • Love lavishly.
  • Don't let the disappointments rule your thoughts.
  • Wear comfy shoes...and clothes.
  • Buy one pair of "statement" shoes and a "statement" purse.
  • Spend time with those you love. Cherish the moments...even the hard ones.
  • Sometimes it's best to be silent.
  • Listen more.
  • Be alert to people God's placed in your path. You never know what friendships might develop.
That's it. Eight minutes worth of what I've learned so far.

Actually, I need to emphasize that I've not mastered these. I'm a work in progress, still trying to apply to my heart, mind, and actions what I've discerned from my observations along the way.

Now it's your turn! Set the timer for eight minutes. Go!

9 comments:

Kathy said...

I like the thought about cherish the moments, even the hard ones. Need to think more on that one. But I like it. Good points.

Kristi Butler said...

Yes, Kathy, that challenges me as well.

My thoughts, as I wrote those, were turned to the days spent just before the passing of my grandparents and then the time shared with family going through things in their home as we prepare it to sell. Hard, heartwrenching, but precious.

I was encouraged and challenged in my quiet time this morning on this very point. In Jesus Calling, Sarah Young said, "Thankfulness awakens you to My Presence, which overshadows all your problems."

Thank you for your kind words. Know that you are in my prayers.
Love and hugs!

Meredith said...

I think I'll play along on my blog too, since I missed our meeting. Great list!

Kristi Butler said...

Thanks, Meredith! We missed you at writers group! It was a fun writing activity and was so cool how different our styles were, yet we had the same central theme.

Can't wait to see you next time!!

Kristi Butler said...

Thanks, Meredith! We missed you at writers group! It was a fun writing activity and was so cool how different our styles were, yet we had the same central theme.

Can't wait to see you next time!!

Kirsten Holmberg said...

'Sometimes it's best to be silent.' I've often proven myself the fool by speaking. But even more, silence lets others (God) speak. Challenged a group of middle schoolers with this earlier this week, and am practicing more silence alongside them. Great list! (Saw Susan's tweet and popping in to say hello!)

Kirsten Holmberg said...

'Sometimes it's best to be silent.' I've often proven myself the fool by speaking. But even more, silence lets others (God) speak. Challenged a group of middle schoolers with this earlier this week, and am practicing more silence alongside them. Great list! (Saw Susan's tweet and popping in to say hello!)

Tereasa said...

I enjoyed your list. Like you, I am a work in progress learning to live these things daily. Nice to meet your through Susan Stilwell!

Kristi Butler said...

Kirsten and Tereasa, hi!!! Thanks so much for stopping by! Susan is a wonderful friend! Blessings to you both!