Balance

I've been thinking a lot about this topic of balance lately. I find it difficult. I know others do too. Sometimes I wonder if we "do" too much. Our society is all about "doing" isn't it? We elevate those who do a lot. We are impressed by women who balance a family, a career, volunteer work and fitness. We are amazed by people who accomplish a lot in a short amount of time.

The Bible is clear about laziness. Certainly we were created to work and find fulfilment in our chores. "Hard work never hurt anybody" - that's true, but the stress of trying to work hard at everything is clearly hazardous to one's mental health. Maybe it's just that life is more complicated in this age. We want more, we consume more...so we have to work harder to meet those "needs". We want everything - a big home, a new vehicle, nice clothes, vacations, a big yard....but as we gather these things, our life becomes more complicated....more rooms to clean, more yard to care for, more vehicles to maintain, clothes to dry clean....and the list goes on.

It's tricky...what if I was to say, spend more time with my kids and let my house clutter up and my yard go to weeds? What if I was to spend quality time with my husband and neglect my schoolwork? What if I gave up all my church responsibilities? No, these things are clearly not the answer to a balanced life for me.

All the psychology of our day screams....look after yourself, make time for "me"...then you can look after the other areas of your life. On some level, there's truth in that, but I'm not sure that is the solution.

I'm going to continue on in my quest for balance...I think it calls for sacrifice in some areas of my life...maybe areas I am reluctant to give up. I think it calls for a closer walk with My Creator and Savior. I know He cares about balance in my life too.