little things mean a lot

I hear the phrase often, but I don't always "get it." And at times I believe it, but other times..hmmm...I am not so sure. But despite my ambivilence, the reality for me (like most of us), is that I am a product of my culture. And if you haven't noticed lately, this culture is all about me and all about now. Microwaves, instant everything, text messaging, live this and live that, drive-thru, drive-up, drive-by, fast food, fast cash, lose weight fast, get rich fast, interactive TV, everything on demand, and the list goes on and on. Simple ideas such as patience, diligence, routine, discipline, and process seem to fit more with re-runs of "The Walton's" than they do with life in the 21st Century.

However, this past weekend, through the words of our pastor, Bill White, I was reminded that simple things actually do mean a lot, and they really do make a difference. It's just that most of the time we don't realize it until weeks, months and sometimes years later. So recently I have been evaluating my life experiences, and I have found plenty to validate this truth that things in the moment that seem simple, minute, and almost pointless over time produce life-long memories, create limitless opportunities, and make a profound difference in the lives of many. Looking back, here are a few that have meant the most to me:

- my dad always hugging and kissing my mom
- my dad reading the Bible to us during breakfast
- the use of "please" "thank you" "ma'am" and "sir"
- family, friends, and youth leaders showing up to my sporting events
- my friends hanging with me when I needed them most
- buddy days and family nights
- family votes

Here are a few that I am trying to focus on now:

- always telling my wife and kids that I love them and am proud of them
- praying daily with and for Kelly and the kids
- writing a quick note or e-mail to say thank-you
- talking to God about whatever is on my mind, even when I don't feel like it
- letting the kids win from time to time (this one is really hard!)
- smelling a cup of coffee before I take the first sip
- enjoying time my kids, even when it is late and I am tired
- reading the Bible to my kids even when they don't pay attention
- enjoying God's creation everyday
- saying "please" "thank you" "ma'am" and "sir"
- finding ways to encourage others
- piggy-back rides, even when my back hurts
- engaging a student when I would rather not
- smiling, laughing, and being ridiculous

I realize that a lot on this list may seem silly and even pointless. However, if history is right, I believe that this time next week, year, or lifetime the efforts will prove to mean so much more!