Tip of My Iceberg

Why does it surprise me when simple things become the best options?

The grands have each become adept at technology. From two to eighteen, all have a wealth of knowledge on how to use smartphones, remotes, and helping Nana navigate changing systems or screens or whatever Nana is struggling with at the moment.

It’s humbling.

But too much technology isn’t the best for young minds or older ones. Focused attention on a screen causes disrupted sleep, addictive behaviors which can lead to withdrawal symptoms if those perceived needs aren’t met, a lack of creativity, health issues such as weight gain from lack of exercise, and a hindrance of the development of the frontal lobe, which is responsible for impulse control.

A lot of words that indicate it isn’t particularly good for us.

What astounded me was the fun the grands had the other night as dads and uncles introduced them to paper airplanes.

Screens were shut off, and attention was grabbed with the folding of paper. Watching the plane sail through the room brought so much joy to these kids. Learning how to hold it, throw it overhand instead of side-arming it, having contests to see who could throw it the furthest and fastest was attention-grabbing fun. We were all laughing as we dodged paper projectiles.

Why do we–the royal “we” of corporate humanity–believe that more is better? 

We’ve lost the value of simplicity; society has increasingly pushed us to do more, have more, ask for more, demand more.

Gratitude for what we have has disappeared. 

Addictions are increasing; not just the ones people automatically think about, but binge-watching television, video games, and anything else that occupies an unhealthy amount of time and focus. Our current situation has led to increased anxiety and fear, which has led to a whole new level of addictive and obsessive behavior. 

We are trying to cope with a messy life with more mess.

God has given us a perspective to consider as we go about life. Values He has set forth as necessary.

“But He’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don’t take yourself too seriously–take God seriously.” Micah 6:8

To thrive in life no matter what our circumstances needs a focus on loving others well and loving God well. It’s a simple plan and one that is countercultural today.

We strive for more, we want what we want to be what everyone should want, and we push for an agenda that satisfies what we think is right and necessary.

How often do we consider what ALL our neighbors need? Not just the ones that look like us, act like us or believe like us, but those whose perspectives differ from ours?

Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Walking with God gives us the courage and capacity to love others and be merciful.

It’s amazing how simple truth can be when we stop to focus on it.