It is a new year so how did we do with our goal to live more deliberately in 2012? For starters...I didn't have near the time I thought I would to blog about some of our experiences. Life happened. In a house with 3 active boys time gets away from you.
Overall we did better than average. We had some moments where we got it absolutely right and those are precious and make you feel all warm and fuzzy. Then we had some moments where we screwed up royally. Those moments make you feel like throwing in the towel and you wonder why God ever placed these lives in your hands because you haven't a clue what to do with them.
Briefly here is recap of things I am taking away for 2012 and what I want to focus on for 2013...
I can't make my husband or my children be who I think they should be. Rather than focus on the things they aren't doing I need to focus on the things I CAN do and should do as John's wife and the boys' Mom. If there are areas they need conviction in then God will work all that out and he doesn't need my help.
My kids are very different. I can't treat them all the same way. What works for one is a disaster for another. But they each bring something cool to the table and I need to recognize that and appreciate it.
There are things I can let go or say no to and not feel guilty or allow anyone else to make me feel guilty. I took a step back from a ministry that I treasure and love with all my heart for several months to focus more time on my family. I agonized over it and I had a few people ask me why but in the end? Totally worth it. No regrets.
There are always 3 sides to every story. Your side. The other person's side. And then somewhere in between is the truth.
I made every effort in 2012 to take advantage of the people God has placed in my life as friends. I really lucked out in this department. I don't get to see all of them often or as much as I would like and some are more dominant at certain times in my life than others but I have the best friends in the world. We don't always agree. We don't always hold the same views or opinions on matters. Sometimes we say and do things that are hurtful. But in the end I know I have people in my life I could call at a moment's notice and they would come. I started the year out with a group of them and I ended this year with a smaller group but it was treasured time.
What is next for 2013? I think I'll just continue this blog when I can and roll the year ahead. A sermon we had recently reminded us to embrace whatever God has in store for 2013...the hills and the valleys.
I know that this year will bring amazing hills into our lives. And I also know there will be valleys I can't imagine yet and my heart gets a little jumpy and fearful about those valleys. But I trust completely that God has a perfect plan and he is good all the time.
