Giving Up to Gain – Lay Aside Every Weight

It’s happening, former procrastinators!  My husband and I are moving to live near children!  While we go through the process, I’ll modify some earlier blogs.  Read them with life change in mind.  I’ll be back when we’re somewhat settled…

I have given up my dear minivan. For two years I put off parting with it  It was the last in a string of minivans and took the prize at hanging in for 15 years.

Acquiring a new-to-us car was frustrating. What I wanted and what was available or realistic conflicted. As family members listened to my deliberations, they helped me recognize my conflicts.  Our son kept asking, “What are your priorities?”

During the decision process, my priorities changed. I began to face facts. I’m not great in certain parking situations. I seldom carry several people at a time. I probably should not haul as much as I have been – furniture, plants, boxes.  The means to haul sat in our driveway ready to roll which made life easy and me happy.  Now, honestly, I don’t have enough hauling days to justify owning a bigger vehicle.

The fact is, parts of life are changing. The longer I put off accepting that, the more burden I force myself to carry.  Lack of acceptance creates a weight that pulls me down.

So, changing priorities, I ended up with something different than I started out looking for. I have moved to a somewhat smaller but useful car.  I really like it!  Smart move.

I have given up the ability to carry as many people and haul as much stuff. In return I have gained greater ease in driving and parking.  I have a car that serves me better where I am now.

Procrastinators hesitate to give up something to gain something else. Leaving things as they are comforts us in the short term.  We opt for instant gratification instead of choosing the better thing we want more – a job complete, a decision made, a peaceful heart and mind.

Give up TV to gain reading time.  Give up independence to gain the blessing of children. Give up purchases to gain provision for others.  Give up sugar to gain energy and healthier bones.  Give up pride to gain the benefit of counsel.

Giving up to gain requires facing facts, taking responsibility, and exercising courage. The rewards are worth it.

What can you give up for greater gain?