Musings in a time of peace

*sigh*

That's the first breath I've been able to have in a while.

I'm back in Pittsburgh, taking a break from the chaotic planning and working and just never ending business of life. Okay, if I'm completely honest it hasn't exactly stopped. But it has given me a lot of time to just think instead of constantly do.

I've been thinking about what is most important in life. We are constantly bombarded with "needs" and "must haves" that really are stupid. For instance, I got a letter from Phi Beta Kappa saying that if I contribute to their organization, I'd get a LIMITED EDITION letter opener that "I'll be sure to use with pride."

I don't know about you, but I don't need higher self-esteem when opening letters, especially when it's founded in a piece of brass.

So what is important, or at least has creeped across my mind so far?

Family.

Right now I'm watching Mrs. Doubtfire. The movie before it was Cheaper by the Dozen. Right before that my dad and I got to talking about taxes, life, disappointments, poetry, my pursuits and dreams...soon we'll be going to have Easter dinner with my mom's side. Yesterday we had a bridal shower, and I was reminded about the 23 year progression of "the three cousins" from diaper-babies to now a wedding and full-time employment.

My family keeps me humble. My family keeps me grounded. I come home and still have to put away the dishes. I'm asked to sing and entertain, but then clean up my room. They remind me that I'm not an island, and that I'm not a loner, and that my actions do impact other people.

So is the family of Christ. My pastor reminded us this Easter that we're called to follow Jesus, not just believe, but we're not to do it alone. Small groups, hospitality groups, support groups, they're all....groups! The disciples were told to wait TOGETHER in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. The apostles were sent out often in pairs for ministry. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit show the community, compatibility, and necessity of family: they cannot be separated, and all have their specific purpose.

I think my greatest desire is to belong to a person, a group, an organization where I am needed, wanted, but challenged, stimulated, where what I have to offer is appreciated, and what others offer is cherished. Where who I am is appreciated and enjoyed, and where I can appreciate and enjoy others' gifts.

No competition, no intimidation, no bitterness...well, at least to the degree where relationships are paralyzed.