A few weeks ago, as I started planning Christmas presents for the season, I asked Elizabeth, "Have you thought at all about Christmas presents you'd like to receive this year?" She looked surprised. No, she hadn't thought about that at all. "Well, is there anything you want?" She thought for a while. No, not really. She couldn't think of anything. "What about toys? Books? Games? What about clothes? Are there any clothes you think would be nice to have?"
Finally she perked up. "Yes! I have a favorite shirt! But I guess I already have it!"
I am so proud of her that she is able to resist materialism so far. I'm sure it has something to do with never watching TV geared to children (NFL football on Sundays is it for TV for the girls) and something to do with not being in the stores very often. But I'd like to think it has more to do with a girl who recognizes her many blessings and appreciates what she has instead of always wanting more.
I have room to grow in that area. There are lots of things in our house I would like to replace, lots of things I would like to add. I find myself wishing for a fresher wardrobe, or different furniture, or restaurant meals and expensive family activities. When I think about "more" and "better" instead of what I already have, I find that discontent begins to fester. A mud room! A dishwasher! A new oven! So many things would make my life easier!
But, oh, how foolish and superficial I am! Really? I look at my enormous riches of home and family and want more? How selfish and spoiled can I get? Why don't I compare myself to the rest of the world and see how rich I am?
Or even better, why don't I look at my eternal riches rather than these temporal ones that are going to fade away and never matter again? When I fix my eyes and my attention on heaven rather than on earth, my priorities show it. I think it's time for an attitude check. Thanks, Elizabeth.
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