Observations

When I go for walks I pass by two interesting houses.  The first is immaculate.  They have been renovating the exterior of the house all year.  The landscaping is gorgeous: interesting rock flower gardens, well groomed lawn and a gleaming white deck/sitting area.  Every time I walk by I admire the house and yard.  Over the year and a half I’ve lived on Young Lane I have had some interaction with the lady of the house.  My roommate and I refer to her as the neighbour lady who never smiles.  Often she is outside working when I drive or walk past but never has she uttered a greeting or offered a smile, even if we make eye contact and I smile. 

Right next door is a fairly nice house with a usually well kept lawn but the siding is different colours in some places, the lawn has not been trimmed in a few days and the garage is not overly attractive.  I’ve also had some interaction with the lady of this house.  She is perpetually smiling, quick to chuckle and always ready for a conversation.

As I walked by these houses today I reflected on how wasted it seems for the first lady to have such a beautiful yard and home without having a welcoming spirit.  (In her defense, my impression comes only from minimal contact.  I know nothing of what she has experienced in life which may have caused her to be unengaged and unhappy.)  How many people can enjoy the beauty she is creating?  How many people can relax in her home?

In contrast, how freeing to see and talk to the second lady, regardless of what state her yard or house may be in.  Yes, she cares about her yard and house and works on them but it’s not consuming her.  She has time to enjoy people.

I would much rather be like the second lady.  It’s a challenge to me.  I may not be consumed by my yard but how consumed am I by my appearance?  My ministry programs?  Keeping it all together?  God give me grace to enjoy.