Monday, March 12, 2012

Grateful for the gift of today

Life is short. I've learned that all too well over the past 12 hours. God has gifted us this moment and maybe a few or many others here on earth, but all we have is this instance, what we are living RIGHT now. I hate to admit that I take these moments for granted all too often. Those opportunities to sing another lullaby, do another round of Eskimo kisses with Elyse, "mushy" kisses with Ace, or lavishly pouring on the words of affirmation while snuggling with my Big Guy, but I do.

And then, our sweet 6 year old friend dies in a tragic, freak accident and those moments I sometimes gloss over become invaluable and absolute treasures. Bedtime prayers, family routines/traditions, horsey rides, hugs, laughs - all gone!

Sweeping up the mountains of crumbs under the kids' chairs for the third time today, I started to get frustrated and I felt my patience thinning. Then, my perspective changed. I praised God for the crumbs. For the beautiful children who bless my heart every day and make those crumbs and messes.

Lord, thank you for today. Thank you for the crumbs. Thank you for the noise. Thank you for the endless laundry. Thank you for the Chaos amidst the Order. Thank you for the days we've had and for however many days we have ahead. You are my hope. You are our comfort. Help us to number our days and live today the way you intend - to love fully, to forgive fully, and to worship you fully.