Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Stimulating Others to Love

I apologize for not writing for so long, and I really do want to keep up with my blog and will try to be better with it.  I know my recent posts have been quite lengthy and involved and so whenever I thought of writing I knew I didn't have that much time.  But from her on out I will try to keep my posts shorter and more to the point but write more often. (Here's to hoping since I tend to be long-winded.)

So you're probably wondering if I've kept up with the whole growth mindset thing and the answer is definitely YES.  I won't insult your intelligence and tell you that I've been a perfect student where this is concerned, but I have seen much personal growth in these past 2 months.  I have since finished my first graduate class with Liberty University and am well on my way to finishing up my training for my first half marathon.  I have committed to getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night while still taking care of my family and making time for friends and a weekly Bible study.  But the most impressive part?  I HAVE DONE IT ALL WITHOUT A TO-DO LIST.  Yes, you read correctly.  For all of you to-do listers out there--it is possible to have a productive existence without tying yourself down to lists.  In fact, it has been the most freeing experience.  I have found that while a to-do list always left me frustrated with the few things I did not get done (no matter how many things I DID get done), having no list allowed me to enjoy feeling good about the things I knew I got done.  Try it--I promise you will not be disappointed.

In closing, I wanted to share with you a verse that has been going through my head over and over recently.  Hebrews 10:24 says, "Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds."  Often, those of us who daily battle the fixed mindset, have a tendency to stimulate others to work themselves to the bone (themselves included).  Have you ever thought how much self-control it takes to SLOW DOWN and LOVE?  I challenge you to try that this week.  It's tough but so rewarding. 

Until next time,
Your fellow pilgrim