promptings

During my last year in high school, our class put on a production of Pride and Prejudice.  We all auditioned for a chance at a big part.  What could be better than playing Miss Elizabeth Bennet to some handsome senior boy's Mr. Darcy?

No shocker but I did not score a major role.  Even tiny parts like Kitty or Charlotte went to others.  As consolation I was given the "very important" job of Prompter Number Two.  I spent every practice and the entire performance perched high in the eaves over the stage whispering down lines to forgetful actors.

Try saying this in a loud but quiet whisper.  "If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged; but one word from you will silence me on this subject for ever.” 

Trust me, not as exciting as it sounds....

I've been thinking about my perch and those whispers recently as New Year's Day approaches.

My resolutions never change.  Over and over.  Bigger heart, Smaller body, Less stress, More gratitude.  It's some form of that every year.  But I wanted specifics this year.  I wanted clear prompts! And I realized that some of the whispers I was hearing might hold the answers.

I got this text from my Maryland friend Lisa a few days before my birthday.  "You have to get a fit bit.  I just got one.  We can encourage each other to move! Get it for Christmas!"  How's that for a prompt?  I pled my case.  I got one.  Not only do I get to communicate with Lisa more, but I have the motivation to get moving despite cold and busyness.

I read this whisper in Bill Hybel's book Simplify, 10 Practices to Unclutter your Soul.  "Find a chair.  Find a spot that works for you and make space to feel the deepest sense of God's pleasure with your life." Not a new idea.  But just the perspective I needed to take it up a notch.  I found a cozy spot, claimed it as my soul chair and am spending regular time there.  I already feel some new life sprouting.

On my bathroom sink is the most precious picture of my two boys when they were 4 and 5.  They are tanned and smiling, standing next to our car.  It's been a favorite for years.  But lately I hear it whispering loudly "treasure each moment."  My boys are growing up so fast. Tonight I drove Jake to driver's ed.  I fixed Josh his 5th meal of the day.  Before I know it they will be away at college, planning their next date or traveling the world.  I'm so glad for this prompt, reminding me that I have them today. Slow down. Soak it up. Enjoy.

Part Holy Spirit, part human, that is how my New Year's resolutions came to be.  Or as Mr. Darcy put it -  "I cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or the words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun.''

So welcome 2015!  I look forward to many more whispers from any eaves...