This recovering procrastinator remembers reruns of “Wagon Train.” Eager to move west, drivers had their horses in position and ready to roll each morning. The leader looked around from his position on horseback, raised his gloved hand in the air and thrusting it before him shouted, “Wagons Ho!” They rolled forward.
St. Louis, MO lay behind them. Ahead was California, their goal. In between were many miles of challenges. Of course, they pondered the path of their feet.
What if the wagon train folks determined their goal, agreed on their approach, obtained provisions, pointed their wagons westward – and sat there?
At our house we’ve sometimes encouraged ourselves by saying “We’re headed in the right direction.” But are we actually moving that way? A wagon train lined up and facing west would not make California unless they pulled out of the comfort of St. Louis.
The wagon train also had to keep rolling steadily day after day. In spite of stops and setbacks, they’d have to log mile after mile to make it to California. If they did not move forward sufficiently, they would be caught by winter snows and not make it to their destination.
I’ve pondered the path of my feet in the area of leaving the house with margin. Praise God, I have miles behind me of improved thinking and acting. However, at the rate I am moving, I might not make California. I have to step it up. I want to enjoy life in a land of new behavior. (Although I won’t arrive at perfection, I can live a diligent life.)
Most of the time, when we change, progress is slow. That’s fine. But we should evaluate and course correct. In this case, I see I have to change more rapidly than I have been if my husband and I are to enjoy life with me as a wife consistently ready to walk out the door with margin.
So I’ve done what wagon trains did when they were in trouble – I sought the cavalry’s help. First I spent time at Calvary, humbly admitting I need help – God’s and my husband’s counsel. I am also sharing with my accountability partner – and with you ladies.
The plan: 1) Set a ready- to- walk out time 30 minutes before departure. 2) Tell hubby when I’m ready then 3) Set timer for 5 minutes before departure for coat, purse, etc. (Allow for icy car).
I think I’ll make a chart to help with times my husband’s not around. I’m serious. I want my feet to make it to California. Wagon’s Ho!
In what area would you like to see more forward progress?
Those charts have really helped me in the past to reach goals. I think I’ll make a “black trash bag” chart. I want to fill up trash bags of unneeded items around my house this year and get rid of them one way or another. (Not all things need to be thrown out.)
I’m interested, Lynn! What charts do you have in mind? Tell us more. A black trash bag” chart sounds good to me. We once tallied the number we put out over a period of months. Motivating!