Well, I recently read an article in the Ensign about computer games and becoming addicted to them. Just so you know, I'm blushing from shame at this very moment. I LOVE playing on the computer.
Anyway, it really got me thinking. I have an obsessive personality (can we say Mt. Dew anyone?). The problem for me right now is when I drop all of my sweet kids off at school each morning. I come home and want to play my computer. And eventually I look at the clock and more time has gone by than I was expecting. :(
Also throughout the day I want to "pop" back on and just check things. Not a good idea!
Before I know it my day is all gone, my house is still a mess, and my kids are home wanting to be fed. Mac & Cheese has become a constant meal at our house and I've neglected my responsibilities.
I know that this is wrong. :( But when I read the article it put a different spin on things for me. This type of behavior is damaging spiritually! Here's a neat quote from Elder Donald L. Staheli (of the Seventy):
"Distractions and discouragement are some of Satan's most effective tools. He finds ways to help us make excuses about why we can't do this or that. He gets us involved in wasting our time and resources in things that lead us away from improving our lives and developing our talents. He blurs our focus by diverting our attention. This can happen to the very best of you."
Wow, message taken - loud and clear!! But in contrast, Elder Donald L. Hallstrom (of the Seventy) warns us that we have a choice to make.
"When we are out of balance, we have a choice. We can delay making changes and experience the tragedy of a failing family or the sorrow of losing our own spirituality; or we can be attentive and continually nudged by the whisperings of the Holy Spirit to make necessary adjustments. Seeking balance among the essential responsibilities of life is preparatory to salvation."
Well, needless to say but I'll say it anyway - I have decided to make some changes in my life. I'm entering a different phase of my life right now. It's actually a little scarey. For so long I've been sooooooo busy being a mom and a housewife, etc. Now that I've got some time to do other things I have NO idea what I want/need to do!!! I don't know what my talents are! Or even what I enjoy doing (aside from excessive gaming)! It's a little scarey reinventing yourself. I sure hope this part of my journey in life is as fulfilling as the rest has been. :)
4 comments:
When the kids go to school mommies learn lessons too. Have fun reinventing yourself.
Steph, I so love reading your blog! You always motivate me to be better! I have nooo idea yet what it is like to have time away from my kids. Boston will start preschool next year. But when I feel that way about myself and my day, I try to look at all of the things that I did do and not the things that I didn't do, or that I should have done. Life defiantly needs balance between all things, but you are such a giver, take a break or yourself and game on!
You are so awesome!! I was debting what talk to use for my RS lesson and I think you just helped me. I read that article too and thought it was more for kids playing video games, but now I see your poiint of view. I know alot of people that go on Facebook, etc all day too. It's a great lesson for everyone. Thanks!!
Good luck "Reinventing yourself"!! I'm sure you'll be busy enough with school and church volunteering.
I know you'll figure things out...you always do!! You'll be just fine, you'll see. I find that now that all my kids are off to school, I'm NEVER home...I don't know why, but I'm off doing everything. You'll figure it all out!
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