11/23/2022
I was recently reminded of an object lesson that I have shared many times in the classroom and kids' ministry.
The object lesson involves a tube of toothpaste. You let the kids squeeze out the toothpaste, and then you ask them to put it back in the tube. Of course, it won't go back in.
The lesson connects to our words. Once we say something...post something...text something...we can't take it back. For better or worse, the things that we say impact others. Forgiveness isn’t easy…forgetting is nearly impossible.
Throughout this season, remember that as much as we wish that it could be merry and joyful for everyone all of the time...that simply isn't reality.
As you walk through the store, try making eye contact and offering a smile. Please and thank you matter...say them often. Show gratitude for those who are working so hard to make life easier by providing services to you or to your family. You never know the difference you may make.
Finally, remember grace and space goes a long way with your people. If you are feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, irritated, impatient...take some space. Give yourself grace and give your people grace. Lavish grace changes hearts. Don't forget to encourage your people to take space too. This time of year has lots of sensory overload, pressured encounters, and emotional intensity. Space matters.💕
One of my favorite quotes-
"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”-Viktor Frankl
Choose well. Be kind. Love well. Either way, you will be making a difference in someone's life. Make it count. You can't undo it once it is out of the tube!!