The Groundhog Day do-over

I noticed they were playing the movie "Groundhog Day" on tv the other day. I started smiling. I can't help it. It's a funny movie. 


I particularly love the part when Bill Murray punches the insurance agent. (No offense to all you insurance agents out there.) And when he steps in the same icy puddle for the umpteenth time. 


While reflecting on how long it took him to avoid the aforementioned puddle, I began to wonder how long it would take me. 


How long would it be necessary for me to repeat the same day over and over before I was able to live it the right way? 


Just that morning:

•  I had screamed at my 20 month old for wiping her nose on my blouse. 
• I had been impatient with my 3 year old for not coming in IMMEDIATELY when I called so we could get lunch ready. (we're on such a tight schedule around here you know - wink wink)
• And I probably snapped at my husband for something he said that he didn't really mean. 

Now those are just a few of the things I did do that I shouldn't have done. Not to mention all of the things I hadn't done that I should have. 


Whew. No wonder Jesus told us that "each day has enough trouble of its own." Matt 6:34


It would take years for me to get just one day right. 


However, I don't have years. None of us do - we only have today. This day. 


What if I had been grateful for a nearly 2 year old who has nothing more wrong with her than a snotty nose? And a washing machine that makes cleaning up easy. 


What if I had been grateful that I own a home with a yard for my boy to play in? And that we can afford a lunch to call him in for? 


What if I had focused on all the loving things my husband does and says for me instead of the one offhand comment that I took the wrong way? 


Do your best. Slow down. Be grateful.  


Give grace - especially to you.