beWARM

After over 15 years of warmth, coziness, and comfort, I had to part with my favorite slippers. They were actually a bit of an embarrassment – worn out, and very tired looking. As sad as I was to say my goodbyes, this action was symbolic.

Relinquishing these old friends represented my efforts to dispose of some ways of thinking that had been firmly imbedded in my being – reactions to situations or words that were habitual, automatic.

And that were not necessarily the most empowering, positive, or peace-producing thoughts.

They ranged anywhere from feeling impatient and frustrated while in the longest checkout line at the grocery store to creating a three act mental drama from an relatively innocuous comment.

Sigh…

Can anyone else relate to responding to the “ouchies” of everyday life in ways we would rather not revisit?

How easy it is to start slip-sliding into old ways at the slightest provocation when we get distracted and a little off course in our daily doings.

Each time I find myself wrapped up in those tired ideas, I pray and ask for God to help me with a fresh new cerebral ensemble.

Thankfully, my repeated efforts to recognize my off-target, mistaken thinking and the reactions thereof have had mild success.

On occasion, I have even been able to rein in thoughts before they invade my mind at breakneck speed.

Suddenly, I can choose not to start slipping into my old ways.

Those runaway emotions lose their momentum, fizzled out at the start.

Refashioning our behavior is a lifelong journey, and one that, when successful, has great rewards.

And it certainly makes us even more aware that God is present, and ready to receive our cast-offs.

I am still searching for a pair of replacement slippers.

But in the meantime, I’ll enjoy the pleasure of being on solid footing as I follow His lead.

I cried out, “I am slipping!” but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me.
When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.

~ Psalm 84:18-19 NLT