However, I wonder if that phrase shouldn't be written in bold letters somewhere for our families to see every day. "Awaiting moderation." How many of our homes are places where we're just doing too much of so many things? I've spoken before about our pace being too quick but that's only part of the problem. Even if we're moving fairly slowly we still may be doing way too much.
What are some of the areas in our homes where we may have gone overboard and need moderation? How about: activities, kids' responsibilities, house maintenance projects, weekly chores, meetings outside the home, hobbies, educational demands, school service commitments, church obligations. The list could go on and on, right? You can add your own that I didn't mention.
Here are a couple of questions to ask yourself that might help you identify the items needing moderation at your house. Do I dread this commitment every time it comes around? Do I fudge on my preparation and planning for it because I simply do not have time? Do I see joy in others in my home when we're involved in it or could they just take it or leave it?
Are several of these activities just more of the same? Would I just rather be doing something else?
In addition, talk about what things are we missing out on, skimming on, barely doing but need to be doing because other things are crowding them out? My hunch is that most parents had certain desires and goals for their families that have gotten lost because we're simply doing too much of things that don't really matter that much.
So start somewhere. Where can you trim? Where must you cut back? Then add one thing in that you'd rather be doing or need to do as a family that you'll all be glad you did later. And don't forget to include just some quiet time, time that doesn't have to be so productive and results oriented.
Do more playing, praying and staying. You'll be glad you did.
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