Being content in the mundane

I've been reading, and listening, a LOT lately. I believe so strongly in personal growth. There is always room to grow, to learn a new perspective and to find ways to live your very best life. 

I read this really simply post, or excerpt from a book...I'm honestly not entirely sure which...But the point of the message was this-Life is largely mundane, everyday living, with small moments of total amazement. If we don't learn to be content in the mundane, we will spend the majority of our lives being discontent. We cannot wait for the next big payday, the next vacation, the celebration or even simply the weekend. 

This hit me in a profound way. I have lived in "waiting" for-maybe-ever. I countdown to vacation, I count down to my bonus, I countdown to the weekend, I sometimes simply countdown to bedtime... I am nearly always counting down. This struck me so deeply because I know how fragile life is and here I am, wishing time away?? Time is the most precious gift in the entire world! How can I possibly wish it away?!

I of course know about living in the present, appreciating the journey, not simply the destination...but there was something about what I read that truly resonated with me and has made me truly want to do better. The only thing that is promised is NOW! We have no sweet clue what is in store for ourselves, or for others. We need to find the simple joys in the mundane. We need to remind ourselves of all the miracles that take place constantly. No, life isn't all sunshine and rainbows, but HOLY CRAP there is a lot to be grateful for!

That creamy-smooth coffee, those hardy belly laughs, the flowers in bloom, a beautiful sky painting (aka sunset)...I mean COME ON PEOPLE!!! This stuff is freaking glorious! Yes, life is hard. Yes, life is often boring, or quiet, or too loud...but it is life and we are here living it! Do you realize how many people who would trade shoes with you in a heartbeat, simply to still be here?! We cannot take this life for granted! We cannot wait for the next big thing! The big thing is now! Living IS the big thing!

Life has felt really chaotic and difficult this past year. I won't trouble you with the list, but it has been a lot. A lot, a lot....But I am so dang grateful. My kids put me through occasional bouts of hell, but mostly they're an utter joy. My spouse is the most helpful, handy and handsome...albeit frustrating, but also so willing to learn and grow alongside me. Everyone is safe and fed and loved. We are so fortunate. I am so grateful for this moment and all of the other ones.