I'm Working

It’s the Christmas break but I’m working. I’m housesitting for a couple with a dog. The job is a little more work than I thought it would be. The dog is great, but he can be a little demanding. He barks at me when he wants to eat, have a treat, go outside to use the bathroom, play with me, and, surprisingly, even when I’ve forgotten to give him his medicine. So this dog, Kiko, keeps me working. I’m also working to change my life for the better and it seems I’ve been doing that for a long time with mixed results. I was reviewing some of my older blogs and this led to (again this word) mixed feelings. Most of them are well-written and encouraging.  I did a lot of work and reached some personal goals. There’s a small amount of contentment in what was accomplished. But there is a down side. One can’t help see what has changed, but also, what hasn’t. Here is what hasn’t changed:

·         I still don’t have enough time with those I love.

·         I still don’t have enough money and, in fact, my financial situation is worse than it’s ever been in my life.

·         I’m still nowhere nearer to my house by the beach.

                 I’m not complaining, just stating facts. But here is what has changed in the five years since I wrote my first blog:

·         I have finally, after all these years, learned how to handle money well.

·         I’ve written two or three books.

·         I got a Master’s Degree in US History, something I’ve wanted to do for years.

·         I traveled through a good part of the country.

·         I’ve joined a church that values my service.

·         I’ve found new paths in Purpose with educational politics.

·         I won an election.

·         I’ve helped people graduate with their high school diplomas or equivalencies.

·         I haven’t had a panic attack in months (except one when starting a new project).

                 Here are some other things that haven’t changed:

·         I still face fear and procrastination.

·         I can still write.

·         My Muse is still with me.

     My life is not perfect. But the challenges I’m facing feel more meaningful and even more helpful than what I’ve faced in the past. Brian Tracy said that it’s not reaching your goals that is the most important thing, but who you become while striving to reach your goals. So now I’m working harder than ever to become better than ever. I’m working on my character, to not be negative in thoughts or words, to be a better father, to take up the cause of others, and most of all, to wait patiently for what I want and need. I’m working on my ability to Get Started and Keep Going.