Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Take Time to Smell the.....Coffee

Do you ever stop before you take your first sip of coffee in the morning, and just inhale the aroma? Mmmmm. Life is so busy, and usually I just grab my cup and go. I drink my coffee while I'm busy at my desk or doing my housework. I enjoy it, and I know that rich smell is there, but somehow, it is so much better if I take a moment to savor it.

I. Take the Time

Today, I want us to stop and think about being a mom. It's a full-time job (but you didn't need me to tell you that!). Life is so hectic and busy, and many times we are just doing our tasks at a run. However, sometimes we need to pause, and take a few moments, and "smell the coffee".

When was the last time you took the time to take a deep breath and think about the joy and privilege of being a mother? Babies grow up so fast! Savor the moments with your little ones. Life's busyness can often consume us, and cause us to neglect the most important things in our lives. Take the time to hold and hug your children. Take the time to talk to your children. Take the time to pray for your children. Take the time to play with your children. Take the time to appreciate and thank God for your children.

II. Take the Test

If the "aroma" of motherhood doesn't seem all that sweet to you, maybe you need to take this little test. What is your attitude toward being a mom? Do you perceive your children as a blessing or a bother? Do you see them as a delight or a distraction? Do you view your role as a mother as a sacred trust or a stressful task? The truth is that God says our children are a blessing, a gift from Him. He has entrusted them to our care and keeping, and it is a huge responsibility to seek to raise them up "in the nurture and admonition of the Lord".

There is no doubt that sometimes are children can bother us, distract us, and stress us out! But if that is our overall attitude toward motherhood, then we need to ask God to change our hearts.

If you're feeling a little overwhelmed with being a mom (and who doesn't at times?), then I would encourage you to take a mini time out. Think about the child or children God has blessed you with. Think about what your life would be like without them. Think about what a precious gift they are. Then, thank God for them. Take time to enjoy and appreciate the gift of motherhood.

Tomorrow's Topic: Scents & Sensibility

3 comments:

Alicia Reagan said...

I am enjoying your blog very much. Although I am not a coffee drinker, I can make the adjustment in my mind if I think of Cappucino or Chai Tea. I don't know where you find the time to keep writing a new, wonderful article every day but I am glad you do because I enjoy it. Keep up the great worl!
I love you and can't wait till you come here!!:)

Unknown said...

Hi Niki, I love reading your nuggets of wisdom and wit. Your charming way of teaching us valuable lessons is remarkable. I can't read a day without tears bubbling up and tumbling down my cheeks. Thanks for your devotion to our Lord, He will touch others thru you. Thanks again! Cal (not Wes... but I know he appreciates you too!)

Niki Lott said...

Thank you both so much!