Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Reconnecting with What Matters Most

It’s simple to get swept up in the chaos of everyday life—our minds frequently focused on what lies ahead. While we pray for significant changes, miracles, life-changing breakthroughs or moments, we can easily miss the small blessings that exist all around us. These frequently overlooked treasures might not always evoke wonder, but they gently sustain and uplift us.

For nearly two years, B worked in Iraq, during that time, his absence weighed heavily on me. While he was in a relatively safe environment due to the precautions taken by his workplace, I was constantly filled with worry. I watched other dads drop off their kids at school, share laughs at the grocery store, and enjoy weekends with their families, while we were often shut in our home. It brought tears to my eyes as I realized how much I had overlooked the blessing of having him by my side before. I had never considered it a blessing, but then I understood the gift of simply being together as a family. Those everyday interactions felt ordinary back then, but I saw their true significance. The ongoing concern for his safety opened my eyes to how easily we overlook the simple joys of life.I had taken those everyday moments for granted, failing to appreciate the depth of their meaning until they were no longer there.

Now that my husband is back, I notice how easy it is to slip into old patterns. I catch myself focusing on trivial matters, risking the chance of overlooking the incredible gift of our family being whole again. I worry that I might forget to cherish the small, precious moments—the quick “I love you” exchanged in passing the laughter we share over dinner, or the playful teasing that fills our home. It's vital for me to consciously appreciate these moments and not take them for granted

Even something as simple as leaving the house and returning safely is a blessing that often goes unnoticed. I’d come to appreciate how significant each journey is, especially after feeling the weight of being a solo parent for a few weeks. I remember heading to meet my brother's family and I offered assistance to someone to drop her off - though it was a detour for me, only to realize my brakes were barely working. Thankfully, we were on a small road instead of the highway. At that moment, I understood how God protected us to take that detour. What seemed like a minor choice was a way to keep us safe from potential danger.

And what about our meals together? I’ve learned to value the ability to sit around the table as a family, sharing food and stories. I've had nights when I didn't want to have food as I didn't have a company. Many go without, and I want to remember how fortunate we are to nourish each other and create a sense of home.

These small blessings are not trivial at all; they form the foundation of our lives and well-being. I don’t want to let these moments slip by without fully appreciating them. My focus should be on the love, safety, and connection we share—things that truly matter.

As I move forward, I will consciously take time to recognize the blessings that surround us. I want to embrace each moment with gratitude, understanding that our family’s togetherness is a treasure. Cherishing these everyday gifts is essential, for they remind me of how fortunate we truly are.

With love,
GB

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 A beautiful call, to walk with people  To share their tears, to lift a prayer, to stand with hope when none is there. Oh the joy our hearts...