Quality Time

 by Macy Johnson

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me;

he delivered me from all my fears.”

(Psalm 34:4 NIV)

 

As I stood on my balcony one sunny, Sunday morning, I heard a voice say to me, “Don’t try to do too much.” It came right after I raced through my mind and listed the things I planned to do the week my grandchildren were with me. I knew the voice in my heart was straight from my heavenly Father.

 

I looked forward to a fun-filled week of activities with Dahlia and Carver. The boxes had arrived from Amazon with craft supplies and projects. A trip to Costco and Hobby Lobby was planned. A swim in the lake was definitely on the list.  

 

Quality time and memories go hand in hand. I dare not rush through them. As a former project manager, I like to organize and plan, but hesitate to allow others to do what they want to do. They must expedite my programs! Family and friends can confirm I am wired that way.

 

Why do I fret? What am I afraid of? That my grandchildren won’t like me? I remember as a child spending time with my grandparents, but none spent as much quality one-on-one time with me as we do with our grandchildren. Sometimes I feel guilty that I’m not doing as much with them as others do with theirs. I dare not compare myself with other Nanas.

 

I need to pay attention as God’s still, small voice reminds me all blessings come from Him and are poured through me. I cannot create them. I can thank Him and rejoice in the journey with Him and my family and friends.

 

I will relax, breathe, be resilient, and enjoy the quality time with others that God gives me. I hope you will, too!