First Sunday of Advent

Today we enjoyed a fun filled day at our church. We belong to a very nice, relaxing, wonderful church family in Middleboro. It has been a very special place for me (and my family) since I joined in 2001. We started the day off with Sunday school. I helped the classes today..that was interesting. I find teaching preschool much easier than school aged children-lol..but it was fun! After Sunday School we headed into the church for service. Today is the first Sunday of Advent, so that was the main focus of the sermon today. My pastor spoke today of awaking to life..to God..when will we or have we become awake? As usual, my pastor presented this in a very interesting and thoughtful way. She shared stories with us of times when others that she had spoke to had "woke up." Some woke up to hear the Lord or slow down in life when; a loved one had passed, a tragic accident had happened, When life became too hectic.... So as I normally do, I spent the afternoon thinking, "Am I awake?" I cam to the conclusion this evening, that I have small wake up calls each day. Each day I find something to be greatful for, to find ways to help others, find ways to better my life (for myself and for my family.) I also try to "evaluate" my current living style from time to time. I have recently thought of this because my dream of owning a bigger child care center, didn't end up happening as I thought it would. I was disapointed that all my hard work and dreams had been broken. I then realized that it just wasn't meant to happen at this time. I thought about how my whole life, I have always wanted more. I don't mean, I wan't people to give me things..I just feel like I need to work harder and get more, weather it's "stuff", a bigger house, car, daycare, etc... This lesson recently taught me, maybe rather than chasing a dream of always wanting more; a bigger house, more stuff, a nicer car, etc.. I need to breath and appreciate all of the wonderful things that I have. I have 5 beautiful, helathy children, a loving husband, a great family, friends, church family, a nice home, car, stuff, small daycare..why do I need more? I don't!! I woke up and realized..I don't need more..I just need to breath, appreciate what I have and thank God for all the miracles that happen each day. We ended our day back at the church for a concert. Another thing I am blessed to have; music! I love music and our church choir is the best around! It was so peaceful sitting and listening to the Christmas music! I have also joined in the church medition/book discussion group. I have been involved with one in the past. It is very relaxing and peaceful. Another great way to wake up and breath!! We started the advent season with so much to be thankful for! I wish for all of you to find peace, love and to breath and wake up too!