Around 4 years ago I attended a mother and son event sponsored by my children’s elementary school. It was held at Dart Warz, a fun little arena set up to house nerf gun wars. This was my first time at that place and I thought it was great! My son was in 3rd grade at the time and it was the perfect setting for some one-on-one bonding with him. The previous year that event was held at the same place and I was unable to go due to some serious morning sickness. My awesome husband went in my stead. This particular year my son walked me over to a refreshment table filled with cookies. We each grabbed a treat and headed over to some chairs to sit and enjoy them. As he took a bite of his cookie he looked longingly at the treat-filled table and said, “Last year we got cupcakes.” I considered his comment. Even as his mouth was busy chewing up a big, delicious cookie, that he was enjoying, he compared it to the previous year and wanted something different. I could relate to that. Can’t you? I smiled and responded, “Isn’t it great that you’re eating a cookie now!?!” He nodded as he took another bite and with a slight raise in his voice he agreed saying, “Yeah!”
I have thought about this interaction a hundred times since. Just a small change of perspective was all it took to go from wishing he had what he’d had before to being grateful that he had something right then.
Isn’t this all of us at some point or another? Haven’t we all been enjoying shade and wishing for A/C? Or eating a popsicle and longing for ice cream? Apparently, I am longing for summer…isn’t it great that it’s coming!?!
This statement has become a regular in our home. It has worked its magic in several unexpected ways. If I can help my children (and myself) learn to choose to see the good in their lives and avoid the trap of comparison, I know that I have armed them with the ability to choose happiness now. Later on, when I am not around and negative thoughts creep in, I hope my voice haunts them with, “Isn’t it great that…”
In a world that will tell you over and over that you don’t have enough or that you’re not enough, take a step back and remember what you do have…isn’t it great!?!
Go on! Give it a try, you know you want to.
Kayleen
