Mindful Challenge

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

"...be mindful to be a blessing..." Galatians 6:10 (AMP)
Today I am reminded of all the needs around me. For most humans, the needs closest to us (a to-do list at work or the dirty diaper your toddler is wearing) are the ones we go to the quickest. While I believe we should tackle our list and change dirty diapers, I am aware that we can be a blessing to others in the midst of our busyness. Sending a card to a friend, giving a neighbor a bowl of fruit from your backyard or texting a friend saying "I am praying for you today" can make a world of difference.
Galatians 6 talks about gentleness in restoration, carrying each other's burdens and not thinking we are better than a person who made a mistake. I think it's impressive that the Bible doesn't make exceptions for busy people when it comes to helping others. I understand there are seasons in life where all you can do is put one foot in front of the other such as when you have infants in your care or a large project at work. I am also mindful that life is not made of emergencies only. There are plenty of times when we can look around and meet the needs of others.
Join me today as I am mindful to be a blessing. You don't have to get out of your way to do it. It may be that you return your shopping cart instead of leaving it in the middle of the parking lot. It may be saying a kind word to a cashier who's obviously having the worse day of her life. It may be an encouraging phone call to a friend who has been on your mind but you haven't talked to in a while. Go a step further and write down your experiences in a journal or blog about it. At the end of the month, let's look back and share our experiences and what we've learned. Who's up to a 28-day challenge? So here is how it works:
Mindful Challenge: Pay attention to the needs of others around you.
How? Be mindful, be helpful or encouraging to someone every day this month. Register your experience in a journal, blog, etc and share your experience here on March 1. Be creative! I'd love to see Vlogs too!
Remember that you are blessed to be a blessing. Have an amazing month!