I debated writing this in Freedom or Family & Friends, but ultimately decided here:
I thrive on accomplishing things. The smallest completion to the largest. It’s just oh so wonderful when I’m multitasking and finish 17 different tasks during the same day. Since having a child, completing tasks, sometimes even changing clothes doesn’t happen.
The other day I found myself complaining about getting up and preparing my son’s breakfast and let’s be honest, my coffee, all before he starts whining. Then it hit me… my great grandmother had to get up early, how early you ask? Who knows, but early enough to:
get appropriately dressed for the weather,
go outside,
chop the wood,
to make the fire,
to heat the stove,
to begin preparing a meal from scratch
WHAT?!!?
I often forget how fortunate I am that I live in the 21st century, with all of our inventions that allow us to enjoy ourselves rather than merely survive. I forget that we have a microwave to heat up pre-packaged meals, I forget that we have running water and a filtration system so I don’t have to be sparse or worried about with my usage of clean water. I forget we have electricity and gas, that with the small switch I can create heat and fire in an instant.
In the news and sometimes out and about I hear people complain about America. It’s hard for me to understand their complaints when I know anyone living legally in the United States have the freedom to do nearly anything we choose (given harm is not done to another). We can choose from so many things…
We have amazing chefs working fabulous restaurants we can purchase any type of food from fast & cheap to 8 course expensive cuisine,
If the type of food is not available, supply will demand it and capitalism will allow creation to come to fruition,
We have access to libraries to help us expand our knowledge and our understanding,
We have access to start over financially when our overindulgence and irresponsibility gets the best of us. In some countries, you go to prison until debts have been satisfied/worked,
We have freedoms to have as many children as we wish (or don’t wish to have),
We have accessibility to countless churches of various beliefs,
We have accessibility to countless charities to help us when in need,
We have exceptional health care facilities available to fight for us when we don’t know how Just like my great grandmother who instilled a work ethic in my grandmother, my mother, and now me, I have the freedom to choose to care for my family, regardless of the steps necessary to complete. I choose to wake up early (on some days) and tackle whatever difficulties lay before. I do this not only for me but for example I wish to set for my family. Those examples aren’t always accomplishing 17 tasks in a day, but sometimes demonstrating that slowing down and experiencing the moment is the best thing to do!
Sarah