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...
Yes, absolutely. I think most women/moms/wives probably have at one time or another. And those who haven’t probably have regrets about it. It’s so easy to become encumbered with “God’s work,” that we often forget our families are just that … God’s work. I heard a minister say one time that no matter how often you minister to other people, if you’re neglecting your family to do it God is not pleased. I have to agree with that.
Yes. I sold my ticket to blogher food last spring. It was so hard. I wanted to be there so so so bad. But I knew that I needed to be home with my kiddos. I have never regretted staying home. It’s where my first and most important job is. There will be other conferences these years with our children are fleeting. Many Blessings to You!
Yes, Sandy…you certainly did the right thing! I have never regretted the times that I have put my family first and even now that they are grown and live away from our home, I still try to put them first as well as my grandchildren….love them all so much and this is one way that they can truly see it. It is the same with my husband….he loves it when I go run errands with him and just hang out. In the world’s eyes I suppose I don’t accomplish much but in our home….it speaks of love. Thanks for your post today.
‘Anxious people are always trying to live ahead of where they currently are.” -Joyce Meyer
Wow…did that one hit home! Like a major sucker punch, truth be told. I have been running around like a mad woman the past few weeks, mainly because I know what lies in the months ahead (I have one applying to college, one graduating in December from college). Sad thing is, I am missing the here and now, and am stressed to the max. This was just what I needed to hear. It’s time to face each day as it comes, rather than stress about the days ahead.
Sandy, good for you for stopping long enough to listen to your heart! While you won’t be attending the conference, you have made an impact on many just by the choice you made.
More often than not.
Glad that everyone is where they need to be but I will miss meeting you all!
Sandy… My heart called me “home” from Relevant also.,, I had my ticket in hand,, ever since last March,,, and had to e-mail them also to give up my ticket last weekend. Same as you,,,, my heart just called me home. I was so very comforted by reading your post,,, I had been 2nd Guessing my decision, and finally knew a peace as soon as I made it.
I will missed having hearing you and learning from your wisdom also, but know that someday.. again,, more opportunities will arise.
Blessings to you!
September
I’ll miss meeting you, but I know you’ll have peace being where you feel called. I feel torn about going tonight to volunteer or going to a Harvest Party. Funny I should read your post when I did. Thanks for sharing your heart!
Oh Sandy, you made the right decision. I will miss meeting you and learning from you, but that will happen at a better time. Much love!
You did the right thing! Listening as God nudges your heart with His best is the only way to be. You can’t lose!
~Adrienne~