How are things?
Lately when people ask me how I am or how things are going I
reply by saying
“I don’t have any real problems… I have things that I complain about but no
actual problems”.
It has been a good season and I think my blessings are
magnified because I have a handful of people dear to me who are courageously
wading through some very serious challenges.
Lets face it; none of us get out of this life without
hardships and pain. My dear friend and
songwriting partner Rachel Taylor just released a song she wrote called
Heartbreak Is For Everyone. The title communicates my point.
The fact remains that some problems are not born of
circumstance and tragedy but rather by the undeveloped parts of our
character.
Envy
Insecurity
Entitlement
Fear
Laziness
These characteristics are the farmland of pseudo problems
and are an actual problem in and of themselves.
Anthony de Mello, in his final work entitled The Way To Love,
invites his readers to contrast two feelings.
How does it feel when people say you are doing a good job?
What’s it like when you are respected and receiving affirmation?
Contrasted with
How does it feel when you observe the wonder of creation?
When you see a mountain range, a sunset, a newborn baby or the ocean? How does
it impact you?
The first feeling is nice but its temporary. If you try to be grounded in that sphere you
are likely to be let down.
The other visual is constant and reminds us of our place in
the world. It demonstrates a blessing
beyond our circumstances and inspires gratitude and humility.
Humility is not the enemy of confidence.
Gratitude crushes feelings of entitlement.
Wonder fuels enthusiasm.
Compassion heals bitterness.
How are things?
