Some years ago at church, I was going down the stairs and a strange man came over to me. He pointed to the purse hanging on my shoulder and remarked, "You know, they do have smaller ones." Perhaps my shoulder looked 'weighed down' or something. I didn't know what to say, shrugged, and went on.
When I got home, I thought, "Well, it's been a long time since I cleaned out my (very large) purse so I will." After all items were on the table, I was amazed; I had been carrying two medium-sized rocks I had collected for a souvenir when my brothers and I met and visited Lake Erie in Cleveland. Those rocks had been in my purse for months! No wonder I looked weighed down, I was.
This morning I remembered that episode, I guess, because I really felt 'weighed down.' I try to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude but will admit that it is difficult 100% of the time. In addition to several sad family events, there are the usual political intrigues, weather disasters, etc. Then there are the thoughts, "If only I had done this . . . maybe that wouldn't have happened. . ." and the run-of-the-mill motherly guilt, "I should have been a better mother. . ." All this added up to make me have a restless night, oversleep and almost be late this morning for the last Bible Study meeting of spring. My friendly sisters there helped more than they know with their cheerfulness, support, and hugs.
Returning home, I "got a grip," poured myself a fresh cup of coffee, sat down and took stock. I shouldn't be ruminating about all these events over which I have absolutely no control. Instead, I need to count all my wonderful blessings! And a few prayers and a short nap helped, too. Now I'm back to my usual, energetic, productive and happy self.
Remembering past hurts and present disasters are just like those rocks I was carrying: too heavy! We need to leave the past in the past, not carrying extra rocks or 'baggage.' If we ever, ever get discouraged, we need to just lay our troubles at the feet of Our Lord, Jesus. He doesn't want us to keep suffering for what we have suffered for, time and time again.
If you're a chronic worrier, you may want to check out the other blogs I've posted on this topic: "#1: Work Ethic (Sept. 10, 2013), #2: Expectations (Sept. 13, 2013), #3: Chronic or Current Illness (Sept. 22, 2013), #4: Parent Love (Sept. 23, 2013), #5: Past Memories of Cruelties (Oct. 14, 2013), and #6: Past Decisions (Feb. 6, 2014). Unload your burdens!!
Lord, I thank you once again, for helping me put down my 'baggage.' Please help us all realize when we may be burdening ourselves unnecessarily.
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