Finding balance is hard on “normal” days and when everything is going smoothly. Sometimes it seems like a small thing like delay due to traffic or a milk spill at breakfast can throw things out of balance. This usually doesn’t happen if you are well-rested and stress-free. Waking up tired and stressed out about events going on in your life can make you or me snippy or on edge when the milk spills or the cars seem to drive extra slow.
I have to remember to count to ten when those things happen and things are out of balance. If I don’t, my words can be harsh and filled with irritation. Those around me get to feel the wrath of those words. It can make them snippy and reply with harsh words. Hopefully, in those times we all take a moment to remember the snippy person is probably having a bad day. Hopefully, by doing so the day turns around and looks a little brighter for both of you.
JDaniel and I recently went to a local park to hike and play on its playground. As I watched him walking carefully on the planks on the hiking trail and conquer the climbing equipment, the word balance kept coming to mind.
So many unplanned events have happened in our lives this year. If you read this blog regularly you know about most of them. We have had a job lost, health issues with my mom, taking on the responsibility for her well being and worldly possessions, and trying all get schoolwork done. Our daily routine has been a struggle to balance. My thought life has struggled to find balance.
It has been hard to not be jealous of those people who have more stable lives. Taking the time to get outside and watching JDaniel play reminded me of how much clear planning and careful steps can help us find balance. I watched as he moved slowing and cautiously across a spider web equipment with awe.
This isn’t the first time God has used my son to teach me the lessons I need learn. He actually uses him often. Maybe it is because I love to watch him learn and play.
I mentioned just after the New Year that JDaniel and I have started sharing five things that fill us with joy every night before bed. Honestly, that has been one of the best things that happens in my day. Looking back on the day and finding five joys has helped me find balance too.
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Love this post. Thanks you for sharing. I especially like this: “JDaniel and I have started sharing five things that fill us with joy every night before bed. ” I do that with our kids too but mine is usually “tell me your favorite part of the day.” I feel it reminds them to focus on the positive and find gratitude in their life :)-Franticmommy
Balance can be elusive during hard times, but it sounds like your faith allows you to grasp it even when it’s just a small tiny string.
This was a nice post. Sometimes it is tough find a balance. I do like your five joys idea.
Such a beautiful post. Sometimes is so hard to find the balance but you are right it is learning to find joys in the small things.
I find myself out of balance even on the best of days. Just last night, some last minute things threw a wrench in my very tightly scheduled evening and it was hard to stay calm. I just need to remember to count to 10 and remember what matters in the long run.
I like the idea of sharing what brings us joy each day! A great way to send our little ones off to bed!
I am having a hard time right now… I am physically stressed which is affecting my balance and Aarya is having an emotional/ attitudinal problem because he *feels* my stress. I am struggling to keep myself calm and focused… I really needed to read this today… I really need the balance.. I need to count till 10 before I hurt my poor kid some more, and I need to count my blessings. Thank you, you are an inspiration.
Wonderful post. Balance is hard for me, too.
I love that God uses your son to teach you. That has been true for me as well.
I get that about envying people who have more stable lives. However, sometimes I am part of those people with stable lives. And sometimes I’m not at all. I think we all strive for more balance, and I’m wishing you lots of it. And stability!
love this. it’s so hard sometimes to keep that balance, you are most definitely right! it’s amazing how those little ones in our lives can help us to focus. they are definitely gifts from God!
Funny pictures, yes, good balance is key!
How gorgeous is that, it’s clear that you cherish this special bedtime ritual, enjoy!
You have made me think I need to find more balance, then I thought of my yoga and I wobble around in that as well!!
Have a lovely weekend
Wren x
Wonderful and insightful post and love how you and your son learn together and the 5 Joys at night ~ fun photos to for Alphabe Thurs ~ carol, xxx
Oh thinking about you, sister.
That strive for balance is so hard.
I love your 5 things ritual. It sounds grounding and lifting all at once. Lovely.
J Daniel is getting so tall! I feel quite balanced lately, not sure why but I’m enjoying it…
Super idea to share five things that brought you joy during the day!
Children can teach us so much if we just take the time to look and listen 🙂
Finding balance is an elusive goal. I found that yoga has helped me. When I can’t do a balance pose, it’s usually because my mind isn’t balanced either. Taking 10 deep breaths also helps! Hang in there. You are doing an amazing job with all your challenges! Mia of PragmaticMom
Such an insightful post – lovely photos too!
I think you have been so strong in all the recent difficulties. I love that idea of sharing five things that fill you with joy. What a wonderful practice to instill in your son.
Absolutely! What a kool post!
It’s funny how God uses all people to teach us lessons. I found your Valentine post on pinterest. However, in entering your site and reading this post I was blessed with so much more. Thank you for taking the time to write this!
I think these are great suggestions to help keep one’s self in balance…
Balance is such a tricky thing to tackle!
I am a firm believer that everyone experiences instability, some are just better at keeping it hidden…(((winkwink))
Thanks for linking to the letter “K”.
A+