Blurred lines down a dark highway
Last weekend was magical. It has been a really long time since I have worn a formal dress and spent the evening celebrating. After my dress got lost in shipping, I was worried I would end up with a different one that I didn't like as much. Dresses aren't my favorite thing to wear, so the fact that I found one I liked was lucky on my part.
Thankfully, it surfaced, and the dress shop expedited my alterations to ensure I would be wedding ready. Despite the blistering heat that day, Mike and I were both excited to celebrate the marriage of our niece. She looked like a princess in her dress, all grown up and starting a new adventure. It gave me all the feels, for sure.
Because I wanted to enjoy the evening, I spent more time in the moment, and less time with my phone out for photos. Mike looked so handsome in his suit and I felt like a million bucks in my dress. The food was spectacular, everything was elegant and beautiful.
As we drove home that evening, I stared out the window at the blurred lines down the dark highway as I reflected on life. Nothing substantial, just life in general. This year has taught me the importance of slowing down and being more present with family and friends.
Though I work hard each day, I have often taken it too far and allowed work to spill over into my personal time. Working from home blurs the lines between work and rest. I often will answer an email on the weekend instead of waiting until Monday when I'm in my office. I've bent and twisted my own boundaries to ensure I was providing exceptional customer service, and in my mind, that justified it.
What I didn't realize, however, was that in doing this, I have taken valuable time away from my loved ones.
Now, I realize that I don't have to prove anything to anyone, because I have already surpassed all of my goals I had in place for the first 10 years of my business. If I were to retire tomorrow, I could do so knowing that I achieved success. So why do I continue to push myself too far?
Part of it is because I love what I do, and couldn't imagine not doing it. The other part is because I'm being disobedient as I do what I want to do instead of enjoying the life God intends for me.
I am reminded of this:
"Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do." Ecclesiastes 9:7 NIV
"This is the day the LORD has made; let's rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 CSB
What sort of life is if it we aren't rejoicing, being glad, and enjoying every possible moment with joy and gratitude?
Today, I'm rejoicing in the promises He has given us all. In this life that is worth living every possible moment to its fullest. In the purpose He has instilled in my heart alongside the command to honor Him and love one another.
Life, oh glorious life, you have shown me I have so much to be grateful for.
I am choosing to live my life a little differently now, one that prioritizes honoring God and loving others more fiercely. Every plan I make, every yes I give, and every act I do will follow this desire.
It is in this, that God has created me to be a great leader. To lead by example, namely His example.
Though I'm far from perfect, I'll always strive to choose to do what is right in every situation I'm faced with.
God has awakened within me an understanding where I once doubted. The fog has lifted, and a new day dawns.
If you could hit a giant reset button on your life and live more freely, would you?
With Grace, Shonda Ramsey