With one disappointment after another, the day felt like a three-game losing streak. Interrupted plans left him wanting more time for to do what he wanted to do. Others experienced his frustration.
On the heels of Thanksgiving Day, Judah wanted to play longer outside, play another video game, and stay longer at Riverside Park. Quick as shooting star, his gratitude and appreciation departed with joy and laughter trailing behind. Pouting and grumpiness promptly filled the void. He only wanted more of a good thing. You understand, don’t you?
A bird in hand…
When does it happen? Remember when you held something of value in your hand but that drive for more or that belief that there is something better chased contentment away, along with gratitude and appreciation.
Contentment is a good thing. While it can suggest, “making do” it means, “to limit (oneself) in requirements, desires, or actions.” Contentment supports satisfaction and happiness. Being content actually creates space to accept something more. It’s becomes a matter of focus.
How ironic that Black Friday immediately follows Thanksgiving Day: the time set apart to take inventory and to give thanks for what we already have – the day proclaimed by President Lincoln to be a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.”
Harmonizing contentment and desire
“Judah, hold out your hands,” I wanted to help my seven-year-old grandson think about his Story, his behavior. “Now, in your right hand is all the fun we just had outside, playing and throwing the ball. In your other hand is what you want — more time to play outside. But that’s over.”
Hoping for a teaching moment, I pressed on, “What happens if you focus on your empty hand? You’ll be disappointed, sad, mad … right? Now, look at your right hand and remember the fun we had. Can we be thankful for that?”
You’re right; it was not an instant transformation! But I was content with my effort to connect with Judah. And you know what else? Today, I’m still thinking about my focus and purpose to appreciate what’s in my “right hand,” especially the people.
Oh, we missed Black Friday and went to the Oklahoma Aquarium instead. Every time we go I’m amazed at the work of the Creator’s hands!
How well are you harmonizing contentment with your desire for more?
What’s that already in your hand…?
Here’s to liberating contentment,
Steve
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