LOOKING FOR WHITE SPACES
by penelope carlevato
WWW.PENELOPECARLEVATO.COM
I’ve been in this situation before. I’ve limped through the week or month with discouragement. I can identify with King David when he was facing the giant. My giant of an overloaded calendar can stop me in my tracks and reeks of discouragement and failure. I read books that promise I can be in control of my life, my home and even my calendar. I say yes when I wanted to say no. I fear hurting someone’s feelings, so I join groups or go to lunch to please others. I am disappointed in myself, and I begin to feel tired and burnt out. My calendar reflects my out of control life.
WHEN I HANG A NEW CALENDAR ON MY WALL EACH YEAR, I FEEL RENEWED WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO START FRESH. A month of unlimited possibilities and
adventures await me. However, it doesn’t take long for the white spaces to disappear. I add already scheduled appointments and events, and slowly the white spaces vanish, and my calendar begins to resemble a map of the London Tube. How can I avoid this dilemma, not overbook, but still have the time and energy to do what I believe is God’s call on my life and maintain an active and enjoyable relationship with family and friends?
30 leadinghearts.com
This year I decided it was time for me to regroup and get alone with God. He offers me the chance to change by allowing me to make better choices. Choices to choose the best yes, not just any yes. Lisa Terkehurst in her book “The Best Yes,” says “I get all twisted up in making the decision to check either the Yes or No box, not realizing there is a third box that reads Best Yes.” I do have a choice. I‘ve made many great choices in my life and still forget His plan is the best plan. He gives me the courage to do things differently. His plans for me can make that change in my life a reality. When planning out my days and filling in (or not filling in) the white spaces, I decide to ask myself this question: “Does this choice in some way have an eternal impact? Will I regret making this choice?” If I keep that concern in mind when filling in those white spaces on my calendar, I will be closer to the goal of avoiding overload and being obedient to His calling and still enjoy my family and friends. I can feel totally defeated if I fixate on my flaws. But, if like David, I put my hope and trust in God,
