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The to do list

 

Well Christmas is less than two weeks away. The year always seems to go so quickly, filled with activity as it is, and being retired hasn’t changed that. I am struggling a little currently at some expectations that have been laid on me. I simply have enough to do at the moment. I find it hard to say ‘no’ and am just congratulating myself at saying that very word to my church minister. He is a lovely man and works extremely hard. He does, however, feel that every member of the congregation should be fully involved in the life of the church. I’m not sure that I disagree with that, it is simply that somehow much of what needs to be done falls on my age group. Younger families are busy with children and most parents have jobs. Then there are those much older than me who simply no longer have the physical ability or the energy to do much. Add to that a congregation that has shrunk and is mainly older people – and that’s why it is mostly my age group who are busy volunteering and who are asked to do the extras. Because of course, we are retired and have nothing else to do! Ring a bell?

So having just had two extra responsibilities thrust on me by that lovely man, and then asked to do a third I simply said ‘no’.

I have to admit I had a moan to God about all I’ve been asked to do and was convicted to change my attitude. Oh dear! So I have changed my attitude but still have to be realistic about how much I can do at any one time—so the ‘no’ stands.

Actually, I am feeling quite a load off my shoulders now I have made that decision.

I truly want to serve and expect to serve in my church; but you all know the 20 / 80 rule I’m sure. So there I am, feeling relieved.

I am big on lists which is how I get through such a lot in my day. Unfortunately it is easy to have too much on the list. However, I have completed a reasonable list of what I have to get through by Christmas and have made some decisions about what can be crossed off. Does it matter if the gardens are a mess at Christmas? Will the family care if I don’t get the streamers up? Maybe I need to make a resolution next year to cross off more?

Well, whatever happens, I hope and pray that you are being kind to yourselves and not trying to do too much in the lead-up to Christmas. God bless.

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