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Day 5: Replacing the Negative

"Your girls were so well behaved today.”  This was a wonderful compliment after the church service today.  Inwardly, my heart smiled.  It’s hard work teaching my girls the importance of listening in church.  I also gave myself a bit of a kick because I always feel everyone sees the same faults in my girls’ behavior as I do.  However, it is my response that to this compliment that got my attention.  Rather than a sincere “thank you,” I replied with something in the field of, “Thank goodness for Goldfish!” 

With this thought, I found my heart in a quandary.  I am working to live with a grateful heart; yet why does it seem so difficult to graciously accept a sincere compliment?  I do this frequently.  I may have labeled it modesty or humility at times; or perhaps not fully believed the compliment, however sincere it may have been.  I believe human nature leads us to view our faults and hang onto the negatives so much, that we have trouble responding with a simple “thank you.” 

Maybe a thank you doesn’t seem like enough.  Maybe we don’t feel deserving of the praise.  The ironic thing is – most of us crave gratitude and praise; validation and credit for a job well done.  But when it comes to actually receiving the well-deserved recognition – we don’t allow ourselves truly accept it with the grace and gratitude it warrants.


So even if my response hasn’t been a simple thank you and I attempt to bury that thanks in sarcasm or an excuse – I am truly thankful for your recognition. Thank you for taking the time to notice that I’m working hard as a mama.  Thank you for noticing me.  Thank you Lord for the power of gratitude and help me receive it as well as live it.  #livewithagratefulheart #lent2017 #40daysgrateful
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