Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Year ago, I remember this little book entitled, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff."  It was a little book my parents had in their library that had tips on living life without letting the simple, little things in life get to you and prevent you from living your life.  In fact, when I looked Richard Carlson's book, I see that the complete title is, "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff...and it's all small stuff:  Simple Ways to Keep the Little Things From Taking Over Your Life."  It can be so easy to let the small stuff get to us in life.  Let me recount a story from yesterday.

I was at the grocery store and I became annoyed by the lady at the deli counter.  I placed my order for the lunch meat I wanted and how I preferred it sliced.  She then felt the need to argue with me over how I wanted my meat cut.  I was annoyed by this but tried to not let it get to me and simply turned away, not meeting her in the argument she was seemingly trying to start with me. It reminded me of a devotion I did a couple of weeks ago about the grace we should extend to others when faced like situations such as this - showing kindness and humility.  The devotion went on to also say that we sometimes feel that is easier to do with strangers than with our own family - those we love the most.  Rather than a quick come back or a nasty look, I thanked the deli lady with a smile as she handed me my meat and told her to have a good day.  I am not saying there isn't a time and place to stand up for oneself and complain and I have been known to do this at times when appropriate.  One of the passages from Carlson's book fits perfectly here, "Choose to be kind over being right and you will be right every time."  The devotion I mentioned earlier by Nicki Koziarz entitled, "Give What You Need" reminded me to offer emotional generosity.  She states that in "offering emotional generosity, we create an atmosphere for God to do something powerful in and through us."  She reminded me that it is so important to live our lives focused on others above ourselves.  We all go through seasons of difficulty in our lives and each person we encounter does as well.  We may not know the load that they are carrying.  It is times like this that we need to remember it is not our place to judge and that we don't know everyone's situation so we should offer empathy, compassion, and kindness.  As Carlson says, "We need to break the habit of overreacting because of our speedy assumption and judgements."

All of this is a constant reminder to me that we need to live our lives focusing on the joy and blessings in our lives.  To not sweat the small stuff but to stop and appreciate the small stuff.  To appreciate the every day little moments and to celebrate the blessings - big and small.  My children give me so much joy each and every day.

This morning, Jaret was helping Kirra get into the truck.  A small thing but I appreciated the care Jaret was giving Kirra as just a bit before they weren't getting along as well.  As Jaret was helping Kirra in, I heard him say, "Up and in, Kirra."  The reason why I found this so cute is it is an expression that I have used with them before.  They really are little sponges that take in everything that is around them.

Tonight, as I was tucking Kirra, I gave her a kiss and she closed her eyes.  I asked her what she was doing and she simply explained that is how you kiss.  I asked her why she thought this and she told me it is the way Pocahontas kisses John Smith and that one day that is how she will kiss her husband, probably Brett.  They really do take in everything around them.  I thought this was cute and allowed Kirra and I to talk about love and that God has a plan for who she will marry one day.  Pure joy in these bedtime moments.

I also find joy in the everyday little tasks.  Jaret learning to play recorder and practicing hard.  In fact, he has worked ahead in his music book and last week played a solo for the class - a piece none of them have played yet.  Kirra working on puzzles, often while dressed as a princess or ballerina.  And when she dresses like a ballerina she likes to practice her ballet which she takes quite seriously.  It may be time to put her back into dance.  Jaret is also reading a ton right now.  He is into Geronimo Stilton and finds it hard to put them down.  What joy I take in listening to him read.  Kirra also loves to paint and colour these days and is practicing printing her letters.  She is getting better all the time at her fine motor skills.  And they both love to do lego.  I love watching the growth and development of my children.  They are so precious and I am blessed to be their mother!

So, the next time you are driving and get annoyed by another driver or you find yourself at the deli counter facing a lady who perhaps doesn't love her job, remember to take a deep breath and don't sweat the small stuff.  Take joy in the small stuff and the many blessings in your life.