I’ve not had such a good week. Well, Wednesday was a good day, if you don’t count dashing out of the house wearing one black glove and one red. It was easy enough to slipped them off before my meeting. But as the sun peaked up, my situation became more tragic. I had on one black shoe, one brown.
For someone who uses color in their career, even I didn't know if I had a color solution for this.
Now what? I took a deep breath and asked myself this question: How important would this “tragedy” be in five years?
My appeasing answer to myself was “not so much,” so I marched through the day.
Then my not-so-good week kicked into high gear.
Upon arriving home on Thursday, there was a chill in the house … 55 degrees. The furnace had failed to kick on. I went to empty the dishwasher and discovered water pooled in the bottom. I pushed the start button. Nothing.
As the temperature dipped further and dishes piled up in the sink, I asked my husband Larry, “Should we cancel the birthday celebration for Sunday?”
“The party is three days away. We should be able to get a furnace repairman here tomorrow,” he offered. "But it'll be cheaper to replace the fifteen-year-old dishwasher. I'll research it."
Instantly, I knew that meant Sunday I would be hand-washing dishes when the gang of ten came over. But my attitude didn't falter because
Perfectionist? Ask this question:
How important would this “tragedy” be in five years?
I realize my home will always be a work-in-progress. I’ve learned to embrace the rain spattered dirty windows and a crusty oven, all while enjoying fun family times.
Even my photographs aren’t perfect. Who can get everyone to sit still at the same time, anyways?
The next time you feel your chest tightly squeeze, and then dots dance in front of your eyes, stop and take a deep breath. Push aside the panic and ask this question: How important would this “calamity “ be in 5 years? Next, place your answer on a realistic meter. This allows you to be objective, and lets the overwhelming feelings subside.
One of my favorite books is The Nesting Place with a motto:
"Life doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful."
Perfectionist? Rate your answer to this question:
How important would this “tragedy” be in five years?
... then enjoy a colorful life!