In other words, adopt the mind-set of Jesus the Anointed. Live with His attitude in your hearts. Philippians 2:4
We all got together Wednesday night for our family gathering. It was familiar to make it easy on others by laying down the expectation that we HAD to get together on Thanksgiving.
It all made sense yet something was off. In the familiar expectation of two gatherings a year I insisted that we all wait to start eating. It was almost 8 pm by the time we ate. Everyone was required to go around the table to express what made them feel gratitude. Food was the most common thing said because we were starving.
The kids were totally out of control. The mood was strained especially when we got to the part of the mandatory photo.
After everyone left, it hit me. I have prided myself in flexibility yet had become locked into a mold created by expectations.
Next year we will simplify. How about a brunch? How about staggered eating? How about meeting for desserts on Sunday? How about a totally different menu that included Chick Fil-A Nuggets?
I choose today to break out of the familiar while keeping all the best parts of family and connection. The strain is fading and I know we are stronger than ever now that blood sugar is back up.
Love freely
Create new traditions
Release expectations
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Author, speaker, corporate trainer, ordained minister and Hope Catalyst, Karen Sebastian enjoys sharing her rich life experiences with others – engaging them in adventurous discoveries of the beauty of hope in a dark, cloudy world. Her books will inspire you to embrace hope no matter what you are going through. To increase hope and improve relationships with yourself and those that you love check out her Facebook page – The Power of Hope.
