It's been a long week. It started on Monday with a never-ending migraine for me. Tuesday followed with a tearful phone call from my older daughter at track practice saying she had hurt her foot. A trip to urgent care, some X-rays and a walking boot later, we got a diagnosis of a possible stress fracture. Wednesday found me consoling a distraught 10-year-old who is worried about heading off to middle school in the fall.
It's not quite 9 a.m. on Thursday morning, and I'm already out of patience with the day. I have a lot to accomplish today between homeschool and work and this is the morning that we're out of edible bananas for my daughter to have for breakfast. That meant taking precious moments to turn the inedible bananas into a smoothie for her to start her day with. And that annoyed me way more than it should have.
I find myself more and more this week grumping at my family and being frustrated with less-than-ideal situations. I really don't like who I am this week, and I'm pretty sure my family doesn't care much for me either. I've been critical and quick to jump down others' throats. I really just want a few minutes of peace and quiet.
We're all going to have less-than-ideal days and weeks. When we let it overwhelm us, and we start taking it out on those around us, though, it's time to take a deep breath. It's time to grab a cup of coffee or tea and take a moment to talk it out with God. It's time to let Him refresh our souls and provide the strength -- and the patience -- we need to get through the day.
I can't make it through the weeks where it all goes wrong on my own. I can't be the patient teacher, diligent employee, and fun mom I need to be on my own strength. Because by 9 a.m. on Thursday morning on a week when it's all gone to pot, I'm out of everything -- strength, patience, humor and compassion. But God's not. He's got all those things in abundant supply, and He's willing to share them with me.
So, excuse me, now, while I go make that cup of tea and grab a chair for a chat with God. Because right now, I'm sorely in need of all that God can provide. Won't you join me?