Country Mama
“In life, things do not usually depend on a roll of the dice.”
A friend who works at a top retailer says that a big store and its branches are closing down. That suggests, in my mind, not that it affects me, is that potential costumers do not have money to spare for spending anymore. The paycheck-to-paycheck financial stress that people may be going through.
Not that it’s wrong to ‘lack money’ in that sense of which, I can identify with: I can’t have it now when something comes to mind… I need it now but I have to budget for it.” Delaying certain pleasure from buying by saving for it first.
It could be that people do have money. But prefer to save and invest in things more essential and long-lasting. Right now we pay cash for services to have warmth in our house, have good food on the table for a family of six, and maintain a debt-free lifestyle.
You see, we have been duped to join the legions of debt-strapped people struggling to keep their noses above water. Drowning in debt isn’t normal to us anymore. It hurts. It ruins relationships. It sucks the life out of us. It’s ugly.
With regards to fortunes of good looks, some jokers laugh at others ‘who they had their umbrellas opened when God rained down from heaven upon the earth to bequeath genes of good looks.’ Of course, this is ridiculous.
There may be people who seem to have it all. A few who seem to be singled out to be accursed. But when we invest time to analyze things so that we can fully understand what’s happening— we realize that all of us do share blessings that call for rejoicing. And problems that call for our attention to respond; the struggle is temporary—that, we know. But we look for ways to solve our problems to get out of our bad state.
The wonder of being human— with our whole mind, body, and soul-–is that today’s woes are not tomorrow’s destiny. It’s good to know (mind and soul) that things in life do not depend on the roll of the dice like on the Greed board game. Most things don’t just happen. Some are based on decisions (heart), even if we fail to recognize the importance of the moment. Countless of them are hiding in plain sight.
There are times that we are fearless and go ahead and assume responsibility. Or we waste so much time and we pass up every opportunity to serve and be where we are needed the most. I admit that these certain stressful periods of my life particularly challenge my human capacity.
It’s certainly outside of me from whom I draw strength and power that demands constant effort, focus, and faith on my part. I don’t actually need any of those if I were to choose. But somehow, God makes them happen in my life– because He needs me for a purpose.
That outside of us is God. It may be just a small thing to do something for someone to do good to. But that small decision is made important for us to elevate the lives of others in a way that they will look up– outside of themselves— and draw out some good and kindness from within themselves to others where they are needed, as well.
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Question of
Is the real meaning of life important to you?
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Question of
Do you believe in God?
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Question of
Is it important to you that God needs you to live so that you could spread good to those around you?
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Question of
Do you believe in God?
This was an enjoyable read and a message that many should and need to hear. Thank you so much for sharing!
I do believe in God to supply all my needs. Great message here!
you have clearly laid out that each of us needs to find our way. I am glad you have found your way!
Thank you, Doc. As I grow older, ever step of each way, straight and right, little by little, helps me gain understanding.
the most important thing we as people can do is learn every day!
I don’t believe in spending money just because. Even though I can afford to shop for clothing and shoes and other goodies at department stores, I prefer to save. I love shopping at thrift and bargain shops because I think there is too much waste in the world today whether it is food or other items.
When I was younger, buying stuff was some sort ‘therapeutic’. But I realize now that I’m older it was a lie.
Beautiful piece of writing. Well done.
Thank you, Halcombe. Every word means a lot to me in my understanding.
I have been on both sides, having to count each penny and having more than enough. I have learned a lot about money, I have fewer needs now, things don’t matter to me as much as relationship with God and man.
Your thoughts on the matter and what you do is very inspiring to emulate. Thank you, Dawn. As I grow older, relationship and closeness to God is all that matters to me, too.
I certainly believe in the Lord. I am a bit financially stressed right now but I know that as long as I do my best to work hard the Lord will also guide me and everything will work out just fine.
Who isn’t in any financial problems? Like you said, we work hard to provide for ourselves and family, and stay out of debt as much as possible. You are right, God always provides.
I go about thinking that it is not how much one has but what one makes of what one has is the route to happiness. Even the poor and the mediocre have a right to be happy
You are right, peace and happiness comes from within. Not owing anyone anything.
Very inspiring and thought-provoking piece!
I feel that the market is oversaturated with products we don’t really need, but many people depend on creating and selling them to survive.
Thank you, Ellie. You are right. We are saturated with so much stuff we have hardly seen and used in the last year.
My beliefs have been on shaky ground for awhile now, since losing my son. But I respect you and your strong belief system. Life can be unfair. But we grow from these events in our lives. We continue as a changed person. Stronger. Braver. More eager to help others. More compassionate. That has been my situation.
Thank you for commenting, Carol. Your wisdom and current courses of action of trust and faith you apply in your life are what keep you going. You have reminded me of Joshua 1:7-9 to face and tackle my current problem. Thank you, Carol!