Pam Stout of Ann Arbor, Michigan is the author of "Beyond Just Mom" - a blog that reveals the thoughts and musings behind the person driving Practical Parent Workshops, organizing a life filled with 3 children and a devoted husband. She has a B.A. from Stanford University, an M.B.A. from University of Michigan and contributes greatly in her unique way to the quality of life in Ann Arbor and points beyond.
This is the second of two posts that Pam has allowed me to share here.
finding the gift
“Mom, what’s good about mosquitos?”
My kids ask this on a regular basis, because I taught them to look for a good purpose for everything. We’re still debating what purpose mosquitos serve beyond spreading disease and feeding bats. Of course, I do understand natural selection, and the mosquito question is one of the smaller evils that can stump us, but I still think it’s a valuable exercise.
One of the keys to cultivating gratitude is finding the gift in all things. Sometimes it’s not so easy, but developing this simple habit can transform challenges into opportunities. I’m still working on this.
Just imagine, hypothetically, that you are overwhelmed with things to do, and your daughter begins to complain of a sore throat. And a headache. Her temperature registers 99.9 degrees. What’s a mother to do? I know, all of you good mothers out there would sacrifice everything to take care of your precious girl. Me, the evil mom? I waffle. Motrin (the wonder drug) would buy me a few hours of productivity, but I really shouldn’t spread this bug around. Solution? Look for the gift. My daughter is presenting me with a gift: a rare chance to spend time nursing, caring, and sharing our day one on one. Now, I can view the day as a precious gift rather than a sacrifice. You wonderful parents might do this naturally, but sometimes I need a little guidance. My mantra: find the gift.
Here’s another timely example. While the economy falls into the tank, many of us depend upon industries that are careening right down with it. Expenses increase while job security is threatened. What to do? Find the gift. We might have to dig deep, but finding a tiny gem can help. When we cut our income a few years ago, I found a gift in discovering our true priorities. The losses didn’t disappear, and sometimes I obsess over those too. But when I focus on finding the gift, I transform my perspective.
I know my problems are miniscule compared to many greater challenges. But whether minor mosquito annoyances or life’s bigger issues, finding the gift has helped lighten my load.
What about you? Could you find the gift in one of your challenges today?
Look for more great Works for Me ideas at Rocks in my Dryer, and check out Scribbit’s write-away contest!
photo credit: w e n d y, Bashed
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This post was written by pam on November 19, 2008
Finding the gift is an inspiring way to take the challenges and frustrations of daily minutae and turn them into a positive flow. Pam's thoughtfulness and inspiration are truly gifts...and I'd say so even if I weren't her brother!
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