Tuesday, 15 October 2013

Learning Curve

Life is one big learning curve and it's true just when you think you know all the answers, 'They' change the questions.

I love learning. I have set myself the task of learning something new everyday. Is this possible?

Today I played the cello with two friends who play the violin. We practiced and practiced until we felt we had made some progress. So I reckon that can be something I learned today.

But it is not satisfying enough. I aim to learn something that improves my character not my skills. Persevering with the cello when I'm not gifted is good for character building.
Persevering in prayer when I see no results, now that is character building.

So that's it for today's learning curve but the day is not finished and there may be lessons waiting around the corner.

Till tomorrow when I will concentrate and hopefully learn something new.

Learning Curve

Sometimes we know it all. We know we have to clean the house and garden. We even know how to do it, but we choose not to. Oh we make excuses, "too busy" "too tired" too hot" too cold".
We know we should be loving and kind and helpful and patient but we too often fail and often and blame others for our failures.

I was reminded again yesterday in Church about the things we should be doing. 'Healthy Homes' is the title of the series. We all want that, for sure. Most of us, especially the ones sitting on the pews in my Church know what and even how to have healthy homes BUT most of us do not want to put in the work that it will take, never mind the sacrifices it will need.

What is a healthy home? I thought all families were dysfunctional in one way or another. I still think so, as we are all sinful human beings. All we can hope for is a sort of healthy functional home.

My idea of a healthy home is where everyone feels accepted and loved. Where criticism never enters, at least not the destructive type. Where there is guidance and help and understanding. Where differences of opinion are discussed openly and honestly. Where respect is a two way street.

Praying and playing and working together as well as giving space for each one to develop and grow and have individual interests are essential elements to growing healthy families.

We can never achieve a healthy family on our own or in our own strength. We need the cooperation of all in the family and most of all we need the guidance and help of God our Perfect Father.

There are many more aspects that make a happy healthy home. I'll share them here as the series unfolds.
Learning Curve No.2

Today I learnt that I am 'normal'.  How did I discover this wonderful revelation? I downloaded the book called "Love and Respect" and there I was, 'normal!'

Every now and then we get on the 'crazy cycle' and when that happens I feel alone and confused. But now I know others also experience the 'crazy cycle' and as I read more about what it means I hope to avoid it altogether or at least get off sooner. Four days is a long time to be on the 'crazy cycle' and it's four days I will never get back again. Life is far too short to spend any time there, so I'm hoping it will happen less and less.

So here is to less crazy days and more happiness ahead.