Busyness

Dear Daughters,

Today has been a wonderful day. Today we stayed home. All day. There were no carpools, activities or errands. No one left the house- not even Daddy. A day with nothing to do is a rare gift and one that should be treasured.

In today’s world, it is very difficult to steer clear of busyness. If you ask people how they are doing, a typical response is “We’re fine- just busy!” There are many things that keep us busy that we cannot control. As children and teenagers your lives will likely be filled with activities, lessons, parties, and time with friends. As young adults you will be busy working and possibly raising families of your own. Your life will be full, but it is important to learn to manage your time well.

One of the most important lessons you can learn about busyness is that you CAN control it to some degree with one simple word- “NO.” Saying no is difficult and it takes maturity. The world will tell you that you can do it all, but I can tell you from painful experience that you cannot. Many times when you say “yes” to too many things, you end up doing none of them well. The most peaceful times in your life will come when you keep your schedule free with plenty of time for God’s word, your family and time alone.

It is especially difficult to say no when people ask you to do things you are good at. One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received from your Daddy is “Don’t say yes just because you are flattered they asked you.” My prayer for you is that you will keep Micah 6:8 at the forefront when you wrestle with how God would have you spend your time. “…and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"

I Love You,

Mom