Raspberry Iced M

Lately I’ve been working on ways to track the internal work I’ve been doing.

When trying to lose weight, for example, it can be difficult to notice changes in your body, especially if they’re not directly related to the number on the scale. Statistics say it usually takes about 12 weeks to recognize differences in our body.

That’s 12 weeks of consistent effort without seeing whether or not that effort is actually going to pay off.

And after 12 weeks, doesn’t your salad taste like you’d rather be fat?

What I am doing, though, has no deadline, and there is no finish line. Which is pretty awful for the “immediate gratification” compartment that still exists in my brain.

To that end, and as a reminder that the decision I’ve made to do the next right thing is worth my best effort, I have started noting the good choices I’ve made. This helps me focus on the positive, for one thing, and it serves as a tangible diagram by which to track my progress.

Nothing I’ve done has been overly dramatic or noteworthy. But it’s just enough to affix my eyes on the right priorities. Nothing for applause. Nothing for congratulations or recognition or rewards. Just something for me. And since this blog is also for me, below is what I have recorded in the past week.

1. On Sunday, I received a Snap from a grown woman who called me names by which I have never been called (to my face). And instead of defending myself or explaining myself, I handled her attack with grace that only the Holy Spirit could’ve given me in that moment.
2. If I saw something overly filled with ugly language or inappropriate in some way, I scrolled and/or clicked off.
3. I gave someone I do not even really “like” a compliment.
4. I allowed my son to drive my vehicle to attend a gathering I didn’t necessarily agree with. Nothing harmful. In fact, he asked to go to the church he attends with his dad. And even though it was my custody, and even though I could’ve asked him to please go to our church instead, I ate it. He’s not property, and my way is not the only right way.
5. I made a decision with regard to the kids’ health insurance that was the right thing to do. It has cost me. Money. Control. And any chance of sooner-rather-than-later reconciliation with my daughter. But it was the right thing – not the easy thing, not the most convenient thing, and not even the “best” thing for any involved party. But it was the integrous thing.
6. Several times this past week, I’ve prayed before my thoughts overtook me. Not every time. But enough times that it will hopefully become a habit.
7. I shared something very private in our small group at Bible study last night, thereby challenging my own introversion.
8. My husband and I had a pretty terrible experience at a restaurant last night. More him than me. Our server dumped several ramekins of honey mustard on my husband’s lap. And in his work scrubs, he was actually late getting to work because he had to come home and change after dinner. On top of that, he ordered a side item he never received. But we paid for our meal anyway – without complaining. We gave grace. Because we recognize how often we need grace.
9. When a $640.00 prescription sunglasses online order hadn’t arrived on time, I inquired, but did not complain.
10. I’ve been reading my Bible to understand it, and not just to “get it done.” My relationship with Jesus is not a chore. He is not a box to check off. He’s my friend. And really…the only one I’ve got.

I’m never going to get it right all the time. But – perhaps – the next right things – small ones – add up to a sum of change.

Here’s to consistency…