Being a Superhero

I'm sure I've shared before my appreciation of Superhero folklore.  I love the idea of someone who is bigger than life, standing up for the weak or mistreated.  I have watched "The Incredibles" many times with my children, and had a daydream or two about what it would be like to be a "Super Family".

But, I have to catch myself from thinking too much about the fanciful.  After all, we do live in the natural, and I need to be content with the fact that I don't have, and won't inherit any powers that will turn me into Supermom (or Superwife).  If I'm bitten by a spider, I will swell and itch.  If I eat lots of spinach, I'll be doing good on my daily intake of iron.  And I suppose I have enough radioactivity in my life hosting a radio show 5 days a week.

So, that leaves me with needing to do the best I can, with what I have.  So, what do I have and how can I use it to make a difference in someone's life?

Health: I can help you move your furniture, babysit your kids, or paint your living room.

Curiosity/Selective Boldness:  When you need a new couch and only have $300, but the one you really want is $500, what can be done?  Well, I'm going to find out and ask for it!

A Minivan:  I know this isn't often considered in the list of cool superhero products, but if you need me to pick you up, no problem!  And yes, I can fit an 8 foot section of PVC inside!

Coolheadedness:  If you, your child, or my child fall and split their head open, I won't go running around like a chicken with it's head cut off.  I will be swift to act and get the help you need.

A Well Stocked Pantry:  When a tech comes over to fix the heater, and shares that he's fallen on some hard times--he's going to leave with plenty of food.

A Computer: Yes, I can organize your field trip, look up directions to the nearest Pro shop, and inform you about a surprise birthday party.

I realize that I'm just a small ripple in a big pond.  But, I've been encouraged today, that even the smallest kind/loving action can have far reaching effects.  While I'm no Mrs. Incredible (and thank goodness--because I don't want to spend my nights in tight Lycra) I have the power to influence my small circle.  And they, in turn, can go out and touch the world.

So tonight, throw some extra spinach in the salad and when you go to kill that spider in your bathroom, say a little pray of gratitude for all your super attributes.

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Twenty Minute Letter

It's been several weeks since I've had the time to sit and write.  My part-time job has swelled to full time this last few weeks.  So, as I put the timer on for the girls to do their 20 minutes of reading, I have just that long to type out a few thoughts.
And, as luck would have it, I've drawn a blank.  I could share about the changes at work, the ongoing cycle of confusion with trying to get my eldest daughter tested for a learning disability, or other challenges we've been facing.  But, at the end of the day, it's just parts of life that others may or may not want to hear about.
So, now with 9 minutes to go, I will bang out a letter of gratitude for your willingness to indulge me by reading these simple words.

Dear Reader,

Thanks for caring enough to hear me out.  It brings a smile to my face to think that someone may find encouragement in my stories. 

I will be the first to admit that I am simple.  My thought are usually not profound, but I hope that they (in some small way) reflect the awesome God that I serve. 

It's easy for me to get overwhelmed and frustrated, and I sometimes need to be reminded about the privileges and blessings that surround me.

When my life has come to an end, I hope that my legacy will be one of love, trust and friendship.  I pray that those who have been touched by my life will carry these traits to their own circle of influence.

So until we meet again--whether on-line, by phone, over the radio, or in person, may the Lord bless you and keep you and cause His face to shine upon you and give you peace.

In Him,
Birga

The Little Things I'm Thankful For

In reading through my friend's blogs/updates, I often feel a bit ashamed that I ever waste my breath on complaints.  They are dealing with cancer and seizures.  They are sometimes in parts of this world that are being ravaged by war.  They have lost jobs, loved ones and hope.  It's a reminder that I need some perspective.  Any problems that happen in this family seem piddly in comparison. 

I thought today that I'd take a few moment to reflect on the positives that often go overlooked.  Not to understate my gratitude for the big things, like marriage, children, health and home--but this small blip in cyberspace is dedicated to the little things that make like enjoyable.

I'm thankful for:
Couches.  Can you image not having a soft area to collapse into?
Toothbrushes. Self explanatory
Sunshine.  I often don't think about it until it's gone, but I couldn't hack it in Seattle.
Feta cheese.  It stinks and has a bite, but boy does it taste good.
Costco.  Sample days are pure genius.
Superheros.  I never want to forget how to dream bigger than myself.
Backpacks.  Sometimes I just don't want to carry a purse.
Music.  Pick an emotion, and I'll find you a song to cater to it.
Indoor plumbing.  1750 probably looked and smelled much different.
Lego people.  They just make me smile.
Fences.  I like my neighbors, but boundaries are a good thing.
Microwaves.  Cook, reheat, defrost, timers--what doesn't it do?
Magnets.  You'd be amazed at just how many of your daily items use them.
Spellcheck.  It saves me from sounding (reading) like an idiot.
Chai tea.  So soothing.
Windows.  Literal or metaphorical--take your pick.
Cars.  Another item that we don't think about until it's out of gas or broken.  Can you imagine life without it?

Feel free to add to the list.  It does your heart good when you take the time to look around and evaluate all that you take for granted and just how many blessings you really can count.