You Know You're Allowed to Celebrate, Don't You?

I have the most distorted view of time and my abilities. I must. I make lists that are never finished on time and goals that always end up with pushed-back deadlines. When I mark something off or cross it out my eyes move to what needs to happen next. My heart is heavy. 

In my head I have failed and continue to come up short. 

This afternoon I got out my Bible because I promised God I would use some of Micaela's naptime for him. I waded through some of the Old Testament until I got to the part in 2 Chronicles where they are dedicating the Temple. Did you know that those people partied for two weeks? I read and reread the passage because something about it irked me. Two weeks. Didn't they have fields to plant? Job to do? Babies? Homes? Two weeks, really? Why?

Because it was important.

Celebrating was important.

Celebrating is important.

I never celebrate. When Micaela reaches a milestone I report it to the therapists and move to work on the next skill. When Adela establishes a new habit I pat her on the back and think about what we should learn next. When Jovani finishes a stage on our little ranch I ponder what struggles the next stage will bring. When I write another page in my book I wonder how much editing it will take before it is publisher-worthy.

I never celebrate.

​How awful. As I read and re-read the passage of the dedication of the Temple I was struck by the power of celebration. Celebration was not just dancing and music and goofing off. Celebration set aside time to reflect on how good God had been to them. It was time to praise their Lord, and share that story with others who might not have known or understood. Without celebration the Temple would have simply stood silent, a quiet passing into existance. 

Goodness, I need celebration in my life. I need to reflect on God's grace each time my little family finishes something. I need to praise Him when I have the energy and time to do even a single house chore on my list. I need to joyfully share with others how great He is. 

Time to start scooping up some joy and pouring it on all that surrounds me and makes up my world. 
And, I will celebrate. 

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