Just Do It (November 2004)

From November 20, 2004

There is very little time in our household for quiet contemplation, particularly for me. There are times that the only 15 minutes I have to myself are when I am actually in the shower. I have a chance to sort out my thoughts—what I have done so far in the day, and still have to do, and if there is anyone else I can delegate it to.

But, more often than not, even my shower time is interrupted by issues that are of utmost importance. Just this morning it was “I need to go to the bathroom!”

“There are two other bathrooms in this house!” I shout over the din of the shower spray.

“But I don’t like the other ones. I only like this bathroom.”

A few seconds later, another banging at the door. “Sister won’t play with me!” followed by Sister's voice: “I’m playing a one-player game!”

More often than not I have to ignore these cries of distress while I am in the shower. But today, the incessant knocking was getting the better of me. Finally, after being unable to formulate an uninterrupted thought in my mind, I shouted to the next perpetrator “Are you bleeding profusely??”

Slight pause, and then“What does ‘profusely’ mean?”

“Never mind” I sighed heavily. I waited for my train of thought to return, but of course, it didn’t because my shower was over. The knocking at the door persisted. “WHAT?!?”

“I’m hungry.” Finally. The urgent announcement that couldn’t possibly wait.

There are times that I have so many demands placed upon my time, it isn’t funny. Why do I always have to do so much? Surely, nobody else can be as frenzied as I.

Truth be told, it is all in what we choose to do. We must constantly evaluate and determine what holds the most significance for us. We must weigh the choices before us and choose what brings more value to us, our children, our family. And then, when I answer myself, I get back on track, and Just Do It.

Don’t let the busyness of life get to you. Nothing is more important than family. Get in touch with each other now, while we are here. Don’t wait for the day that something drastic happens and the opportunity is gone. Whenever I know I should do something but keep putting it off, I often remind myself to stop justifying, stop questioning, stop whining, just do it.

Just Do It.

At least twice a day I have to remind myself how important it is for me to strengthen my heart, whether I want to or not.  I jump on the treadmill and go-- no excuses.  It isn't always fun, but I feel better knowing it got done.