Learning Along The Way

Santification and the Parking Lot

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I’m pretty sure a parking lot is the place to find out how you are growing emotionally and spiritually.

Let me explain.

Near our house is a “center” where a grocery store, a CVS, Michael’s, Dollar Tree, assorted fast food places and a Starbucks all come together, plus an assortment of smaller businesses.  A “quick stop shopping center” designed with convenience in mind.

Except for parking.  There just aren’t enough front row spots for all of us!

What makes matters worse is everyone is there for a “quick stop” which implies not having to wait for your front row parking spot to be available.

You’d be amazed at how many times people will sit and wait for a front row spot while a “quick” left turn would take them into an entire row of parking spots.  But those aren’t front row.

Isn’t that the way of the world?  It’s “Me First” from our children’s mouths as they dash to get the favorite spot in the car.  We want the front row parking spot; the shortest line in the store; the first to have a new tech device of all our friends; the nicest car; the biggest house; the most, the biggest and the best.

Is this what life is about?

Before you say a quick “No!” think about the parking lot.  Try an experiment this week.  Be aware of your response when someone zooms into the spot you were hoping to get.  Notice your reaction when you have to wait longer than you expected.

There is the way of the world and then there is the Way.

The parking lot is a true test of your sanctification along the Way.

Let me know how your experiment turns out!

 

 

Sharpen Your Focus

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“If any of you lacks wisdom let him ask of God…”

“Lord I need clarity.  I’m not sure where I need to focus my writing.”

You might be surprised what an honest prayer for wisdom brings.

Had coffee this morning with the small group of women whom I meet with monthly. We don’t get together to just have coffee and talk about anything and everything; our focus is to encourage each another in our writing and speaking endeavors.  Each month a different woman is the focus of our time together; we listen, give specific feedback, challenge and/or encourage as needed.  We’ve each benefited in various ways through the six or seven times we’ve met and one of those benefits for me has been the honesty.

I came today and simply stated my need for clarity and focus.  Because it is a serious matter for me my emotions are right on the surface, so I teared up in sharing my need.  (I actually do that a lot; anyone who spends more than 30 minutes with me can attest to that! I am very empathetic, but I digress)

What I received was not a chorus of “oh but you are…” or “that must feel awful…” Instead I was asked good open-ended questions that helped me articulate my thoughts.  I received very specific ideas for my writing topics and specific feedback /encouragement for moving forward.

And now I am armed and encouraged to take the next step!

This, my friends is exactly what a focus group can do for you.  Your focus group might be for parenting.  Or organizing your home.  Or exercise.  Or the education of your children.  But having a small community where you can sharpen your focus, where you can be honest and you are heard and cared for, is essential for personal growth and change.

Want to know more?  Invite me for coffee!

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