A Cup of Coffee

Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.  
~ Proverbs 15:16 ~

What do I really want?  I mean really, really want? Why do I want these things?  When I want a cup of coffee, why do I get the large instead of the small?  Why do I look at my neighbor’s car and wish I could have something that nice? 

Why do I want a new car?  I have transportation to work.  Isn’t that what I really want?  I want new shoes, pants, shirts, ties, etc. (OK, maybe I don’t want any new ties).  I already have clothing to protect me and keep me warm.  Isn’t that what I really want? 

This morning I watched the YouTube video “Life Is Like A Cup Of Coffee.” (If you haven’t seen it, I posted the link below.)    The idea that we need “A,” but we want to have it packaged in “B” before we will enjoy it, is an astonishing eye-opener for me. 

For example, why do I drink my coffee from a Disney Dopey mug every morning?  Does the mug improve the flavor?  Why do we paint our houses with so many special trim colors?  Do the colors provide better protection against the elements? Would a single color offer less protection?  Could the house be painted faster, leaving more time to enjoy, say, another cup of coffee? Why do we pine after sleek, new cars?  Will we be better people if we own them? 

This principle applies not only to things, but also to other “non-stuff” wants and needs.  Countless people wait for the perfect conditions before they step out and do something they desperately want/need to do. They wait too long, or wait for the right “this” or “that” before reaching out to a friend, a relative, or a spouse, never making the effort to really understand the other person’s needs - too wrapped up in restrictions to bother trying.  The shame is the lost opportunity for a true, intimate connection.  Many folks wait too long and lose the chance forever.  Why wait for perfection before taking action?  Will the situation ever be right? 

OK … end of rant, I’m off the soapbox.  What do I intend to do?  I’m going to decide what I really want, and get it, then chuck out the rest.

I want:

1. a closer walk with Jesus.
2. to find a way to grow closer to my wife; I want us to know one other completely.
3. my family to be gentle and loving to one another. 
4. a comfortable home, compatible with our lifestyle.
5. to be healthy and relaxed.

A short list.  Impossible?  Will I accomplish it, or give up in disgust?  Will I order my life to reflect the truly important things?  Will I continue to grow in my relationships?  Is it foolishness to think that I can simplify my life in this way?  I’ll have to get back to you on that. 

Meanwhile, I’m going to have a cup of coffee.   

 

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