Warm Connections {Day 26}: When Your Heart Calls You Home
“Things in life are always changing and shifting. In order to grow, we must change also, and our commitments must change to match the changes happening in our lives.”-Joyce Meyer
It was hard hitting “send,” but I knew I needed to do it.
I emailed Sarah Mae to let her know my heart was torn in coming to Relevant this weekend. My decision didn’t have anything to do with anyone else or the conference itself, I just knew where I needed to be … my heart was calling me “to be home.”
Sarah’s reply was so gracious, kind, and understanding: I think you are a wise woman and you will never regret maintaining integrity with your family.
And then I emailed my friends, Ann, Tsh, and Melissa. I needed to know that I was doing the right thing.
All confirmed responses, but it was still hard.
Too many distractions, too much noise, it was time for me to stay home after a busy month of travels (all beautiful, incredible experiences).
I’m a mom of 3 teens, and although I’d say we have very self-sufficient kids (yes, they do their own laundry and cook)–one in college, one a senior heading to college, the third a freshman in high school–I’m still the driver, the banker, the scheduler, soccer games to attend, violin lessons, deadlines and house duties to manage.
I believe in “you will simplify when you prioritize.”
When I originally said “yes” to coming to Relevant to be a speaker, close to a year ago, I didn’t realize how busy this season would be. I’m also blessed to volunteer my time for my husband’s work, which God is doing an amazing work in right now.
Life is full and good, and I am blessed. But I don’t like to be hurried, I want to put my heart into my commitments, and I don’t want to feel anxious.
“Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are.” –Joyce Meyer
“The feeling of being hurried is not usually the result of living a full life and having no time. It is, on the contrary, born of a vague fear that we are wasting our life. When we do not do the one thing we ought to do, we have no time for anything else–we are the busiest people in the world.” –Eric Hoffer
Warm connections come when we follow our hearts and listen to the still small voice, when we know ourselves well and don’t go outside of what God enables us to do.
I’ll be home for my 2 kids’ varsity soccer games (and my husband’s – he’s the boys’ coach), my daughter’s first homecoming dance, and other meaningful family “things” that will occupy my time and keep me busy, I’m sure.
For the women (sisters, many who I’ve met, many who I was so looking forward to meeting) at Relevant this weekend, know that my heart is also with you, as you’ll be encouraged, challenged, and inspired. I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Have you ever given up important activities for “home?”
Get caught up, Days 1-25 of 31 Days of Warm Connections, HERE.
Hello and welcome to my home and table!
I’m Sandy—lover of food, family, cooking, THE BIG BOARD, travel, and bringing people together. Through great recipes and connection around the table, we become better, stronger, and more courageous people. Feasting on Life is real, and every time we do it, we grow a little more. Read more...
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As women I think we all too often we over commit ourselves and then are so afraid to offend or disappoint by simply saying ” No, I can’t this time.” It’s always been assuring to me to know my friends face the same everyday dilemmas and my tendency to always feel guilty is eased by their true understanding. I think you summed it up for me with these words:
I believe in “you will simplify when you prioritize.”
Wise words, I will try to adhere to, Sandy.
Good post; great decision!
Your motivation is right and consistent with God’s will for mothers to be keepers at home. Not that they must serve exclusively at home, but that is the priority. It sounds like you listened to the Holy Spirit, though obedience is sometimes difficult. You know, choosing between a good thing and an even better thing.
P. S. Do be careful and discerning when reading Joyce Meyer. (or any author, for that matter.) Test everything in light of scripture. She has been known to twist scripture and take it out of context. “Test everything; hold fast to what is good.” :-)
You will never regret spending more time with your kids. They are gone before you know it.
Well, I was never lined up to speak (ha), but I passed up the chance months ago, for similar reasons. I just had a hunch. Fast forward and we just moved a few weeks ago (had no idea all those months ago that it would happen NOW, of course) and I’m so thankful that I heard God’s voice when it was time to make that call. He is so good to us! (But I’m still a little bummed about missing out. Just a little.) :) Have a great, slow weekend. I’ll be doing the same!
I agree – you will never regret it for a moment – that ministry of motherhood requires flexibility and commitment. God often calls us to say no to even good things, so we can focus on the Greater things He has for us. I’m not going to Relevant either – not because I didn’t want to or didn’t have the opportunity, but because I know it’s what’s best for me & my family in this moment. Reading this right now made so much sense for me, so thank you for sharing. xoxo Hoping we can plan to get together sometime!