Just Workin’

I started this post 378 days ago. At the time I was working a lot. I had neglected spending time with family, with friends, I had even put God on hold for work. When someone would ask me what I had been doing I would say “Just workin’.” I was working, but as I was building what I wanted, what I needed had been worn away.

I have always been a hard worker. My family has never lacked work ethic. We have always had to work for what we wanted, what we needed, and everything we’ve gotten. That being said what have I been working toward?

“You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give.” I know that to be true, so what kind of life am I making for myself if all I can give are things? I have been working full time since I was sixteen years old. Over those (many many) years I have managed to make a living. I have made enough to pay my bills, to provide my family and others with all they need, and most everything they want.

What I have come to realize is while I am thankful for the opportunities provided to me to support my family, I am grateful for the ability to do, and I am humbled by all that God has entrusted me with, I am tired. I have been, for so long trying to pour from an empty cup. I have tried to give of myself to realize I have lost a lot of who I am. I believe this deficit began when making a living became more important than making a life.

Today we learned about Joy. We learned what joy is, what prevents it, and most importantly how to share it. We learned that joy is a light to be shared from high on a hill and not hidden beneath a bush. We learned that we are to carry the light of joy, and share it with those around us. As Christians we are beacons of joy, a lighthouse if you will. Even the most dilapidated lighthouse has the ability to lead someone to safe harbor. Today I realized that even though my cup is empty there are people who love me who are willing to share their light with me. They are happy to help hold me up while God replenishes what was stolen from me, or what I foolishly gave up.

When you give be sure you’re giving more than things. They will please the world but Love will please the soul.

I love you.