A few mornings ago, I sat down to add to my day’s to-do list. Though as a newly single mom my days were packed to the rafters, I didn’t want a task-governed day. Yes, they were important, but I imagined how my day would look with a different list. I wanted my day to operate from a to-BE list.
So turning to a clean page, I created my first to-BE list. No matter what tasks or fires the day held, this is what I hoped my day would look like.
To BE present.
One of the things I like least about a busy schedule is that it keeps me from savoring moments with my kids. I say “hurry” too often and brush past the day’s simple treasures with my children.
I want to soak in Annalise’s expressions as she shows me the insect she found outside. I want to pause my agenda and listen to my college girl’s heart when she calls. I want to forever imprint the scene of boys playing basketball barefoot on the driveway.
To BE content.
Oh how this would change my days. To be satisfied, not striving. To be content in this house with its quirks and flaws and in this season right now.
To be at peace with the kind of mom I am rather than wishing I was the fun mom, the energetic mom, the crafty mom, or the (imaginary) mom that has it all together.
To BE kind.
How about a day where one of my chief goals is to be kind to every person I deal with? Those in my house, first of all.
To instruct and discipline in kindness looks much different than instructing and disciplining when it affects me and my tasks.
My to-BE list would include being kind to the cashier who mixes up my order and patient with my elderly neighbor’s conversation.
To BE grateful.
How different my days would look through the lens of thankfulness. When picking up books or shoes left out, I want to be thankful for curious and healthy kids rather than irritable at the mess.
Instead of begrudging the scratches on my stovetop, I want to be grateful for a full pantry and working kitchen.
To BE brave.
Some tasks on my to-do list never get done not because of time, but because I’m scared to tackle them. Maybe it’s a hard phone call or financial decision. Or that big, hairy audacious goal that seems overwhelming.
I want courage to do the hard things, to get off go, and to take manageable steps today toward those big goals.
What would be on your to-BE list?
We don’t always get to choose what’s on our to-do list. But every day can be defined by our to-BE list. On this one, precious day, what will you put on your to-BE list?
*This post appeared as a guest post at at Moneysavingmom.com.
Lovely.
Good to see you Julie. <3