Majoring in the Minors

If my grandmother were still with us today, she would refer to this as "making a mountain out of a molehill". I have heard it more recently phrased as "majoring in the minors". Basically, it is when we are taking a small matter and making it into a huge issue.

Of late, I am finding I have less and less big issues to deal with; but I still find something to find fault with. I am realizing that when I get like this, it is usually because of an entirely different reason. Something deeper is pushing me to find reasons to be uneasy, or feel unappreciated. Some past trauma or situation has created a void of sorts in me that I am looking to fill it up with something. Only the something I am looking to fill it with is more drama and not more peace. Like the lack of peace from my past causes me to seek out a similar situation. Perhaps I feel unworthy of true peace, happiness and uneventful living.

In any case, whatever my motivations or subconscious drive is; I am also learning from my Bible study the things I need to do to keep me from majoring in the minors.

I have to recognize my blessings and have gratitude for them. I often complain about how much my husband works. His long hours and extra days mean less family time. But in the current economy and job market, I see that I could have so much more to complain about. If my only complaint is how great a job of being a provider my husband is doing, or that he has a job that needs and values him; then I am doing pretty good. Too many of my friends and relatives have felt the crunch of the poor economy or suffered losses in wages, hours or positions.

Even when I get overwhelmed with the housework or the constant demands that motherhood makes on my time; I have to be grateful that we have a home to clean. We aren't living on the streets or living in a small substandard home. We are blessed to live in a home that more than meets or families needs and it is in a great neighborhood with wonderful neighbors who look out for each other.

I am a busy mom. Because God saw fit to entrust the care and nurturing of four wonderful children to me, I am constantly doing something for somebody. While I get stretched and strained, I wouldn't trade any one of my children for more quiet time.

It's all about approaching life with a grateful heart and seeing the blessings that are right in front of you.

"For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving" 1 Timothy 4:4

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Resources
Day 54 - Allowing God to Help You Move Forward

Bible Gateway - 1 Timothy 4:4

ESV Bible Online -Psalm 118:24