Contentment is Ki

In grade school, when we would have to write essays, my teacher's would always stress the importance of grabbing the reader's attention in the introduction. It used to trip me out, because ma'am, I have some FIRE that I'm about to spit and you have me STRESSED about how I want to start this paper. I've realized, in starting this blog, that those same feelings are still alive and well as I almost never know how I want to start my blog post.

Then it dawned on me, I'm not getting a grade for this and I can do what I want. Lol. So, let's skip the appetizer and head straight to the entrée today, if you don't mind.

Something that I'm really challenging myself to do with this platform is to write about topics while I'm struggling with them, no matter how uncomfortable. I honestly feel that, through this method, you, the reader, benefit just as much as I do. This is therapy for me, seriously. So welcome to my session, I guess. Lol.

Lately, I have been complaining a lot. Most times, not out loud, but in my head. I've caught myself starting my sentences like, "I can't wait for..." or "If I could just make it to..." A LOT. The analytical person in me recognizes the pattern and starts to dissect, almost immediately. Why is that? Why am I always looking for the next high point in my life?

Why is it so difficult to be present in this moment? Well, I have a few ideas.

For starters, straight up... I be stressed, okay? STRESSED. Some stress is caused by me being dramatic of course. However, others are very legitimate. You know, all of the pros and cons of being an adult. The unknown nature of the future is always more appealing than the present, especially when the present isn't exactly where you want to be. As millennials, we are often encouraged to set goals and build futures. However, no one keeps that energy when speaking about being content with their current situation. This post is a personal challenge for myself and anyone who has trouble in this area, because I know I do.

Hebrews 13:5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.

When I begin to read this one, I'm not going to lie. "Contentment don't pay bills", is my first thought. Straight up. However, as I finish the verse, it reads me for filth, and let me tell you why. I've witnessed firsthand how God can make a situation that seems completely hopeless turn into the most beautiful testimony. I've had literally nothing in my bank account and didn't have to worry about ANYTHING. He proves Himself, repeatedly and really doesn't have to, because He's done enough. For me to EVER act like I've forgotten what He's capable of is just, for lack of a better term, stupid. Money doesn't sustain me, His grace and mercy does. Money can fail me; God will not. There should never be a time that I count on money more than God. I think the most important reason we must be content with what we have is simple: no matter how much or little we have, God will make it work.

I'm preaching to myself y'all. Because, whew. I want to be get to the point that Paul was at in this scripture:

Philippians 4:11 - Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I want to be there, content with any and every situation I'm placed in. I'm not all the way there yet, but I want to. I will be.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.

In reality, I want to be in the season I want to be in. Sounds a tad bratty, I know. Lol. I'm smart enough to know it doesn't work like that though. Even if it did, I'm sure I'd be in some situation, begging for God to save me. Let's be real. This concept is uncomfortable because, within these seasons that we are so eager to get out of lies a lesson (sometimes multiple) that we are to learn and lessons aren't always fun. If we don't take the time to learn, all we are doing is prolonging what He has for us. I think it's our responsibility to determine what season we are in (through prayer, meditation, etc.) and then to try our best to embrace it. Sometimes it's the season to "live your best life" and ball out and sometimes it's time to chill and save money. Sometimes it's a season to be single and work on you and sometimes it's a season where God is opening your heart to be ready to receive and give love to who He has for you. Regardless, He wants us to take advantage of every season, no matter the weather. I believe the scripture above refers to the inevitable, cyclical nature of life. He balances the good and the bad. It's going to happen, so we may as well choose to be content with the cards dealt.

Remember... the glass is half full.

I don't usually throw random quotes in my posts, with the exception of the bible and my own, because they're the realest quotes you'll ever find. Lol. But some dude named Guillaume Apollinaire said "Now and then, it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy." and I LOVE IT.

He's saying the same thing the bible is saying.

Stop stressing, enjoy the journey just as much as you will the destination, and be content with the season you're in. Life is just better that way. ♡