Today I choose thankfulness. Today I choose gratitude. And today I choose connection.
These are thoughts that came with me from a few weekends ago and keep permeating my mind. Mike and I spent an entire weekend in the mountains at a marriage retreat. There was no cell service, just us, other couples we knew, food and wine, and beautiful nature. The kids were at our best friends house enjoying time with their ‘cousins.’ And it was pure bliss. I got to eat chocolate peanut butter balls with abandon. You catch my drift…
Connection was the word that kept coming back and is staying with me. I’ve personally been so unconnected with others there is a yearning in my soul to find friends. We recently moved and this has lead me to venturing out to find new connections. What I’ve realized during this time is that I haven’t been relating to those dearest to me. I haven’t been taking the time to stay connected to my husband, my kids and other people in my circles. Connection is hitting that refresh button and taking the time to spend with your loved ones. It’s also being kind, generous, and lending a listening ear when necessary. These are things I’m implementing this summer and am grateful for the fullness these relationships will bring.
Connection was a theme that continually came up in BSF this year. The word and it’s meaning was something I didn’t allow to permeate my life. Instead of saying ‘Okay, I’m listening,’ or ‘what does this mean?’, I was too stubborn and missed out on connecting with others. Since I’m little Ms. Independent, I unintentionally alienated myself from others. After finally realizing my issue, I accepted what was said a few weeks ago with eagerness. It represents a fresh start not only in my life, but in the life of my family.
After going through a season of rejection, connection has seemed and been the next step in the journey. So funny to me, or should I say I’m so stubborn, that going through hardship is how I find the the answer to what direction life should take. Hopefully you don’t have to go through such lessons to get the answers you need. Reach out to others, let them know you’re thinking about them and connect through phone, email, or text. May you find connection with family, friends and others during this wonderful summer season.
