The Little Things

Last week my students had to write an essay over the following prompt:

Write an essay about the value of the little things in life.

They sat there dismayed because they couldn't think of any little things that they valued. Wow! It shocked me that we had to talk through some of the little things around them that make their life more easy or enjoyable. We talked about laughing, spending time with friends and family. Parents who serve them by doing their laundry, making their meals, hugging them hello. We talked about a compliment, a surprise, and even a smile. They began writing and 40 minutes later the bell rang; there was a flurry of activity, backpacks zipping, desks moving, papers being stacked on my desk, kids walking in, walking out, asking if they could take it for homework and then there was silence. And I sat at my desk, in the silence of my second period conference, thinking about the value of the little things.

I thought of all the little things that I had been giving my attention to and I asked God to forgive me for all the times I passed up the little things without noticing their value and for giving so much attention to all the LITTLE things that get under my skin, that in the big picture, don't matter!  I wish I could just say that this is a just a problem of the new generation of teenagers! lol But I know deep down that it's not and that I often times forget how sweet the small things are. I also asked him to open my eyes to life's blessings and renew my thankfulness for them. I have always liked little things, I think everyone does. The small note, a good song on the radio, a friendly smile, the sun shining. I hope and pray we are keeping the value of the small things.

When my dad became sick with cancer, my perspective completely changed. I was so overwhelmed and thankful for the small things. I was thankful he was sitting at the kitchen table when I walked downstairs, I was thankful that I saw him at church and got to give him a hug good morning. I valued each and every small thing because it was precious.

Since last week, I am trying to take some time to dwell on the sweet little things that God brings to my life. It might be a co-worker who is always positive, a family member who helps, a friend who listens, a spouse who gives. And taking time to be thankful for them. Let's move our focus from the little things that try to trip us up, to the little things that speed us along.

The link to the song below is one of my recent favorites! I am definitely humored by it because it is about life's little annoyances and letting God use them to teach us, help us grow and then getting over it and remembering how BIG we're blessed! I am a little dramatic... ;) so my favorite line is "it's not the end of the world!"

Love you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqqdA8LHN7I&feature=fvwrel

watch her live here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HteoxWzAT8