The New Egg

Our chickens laid their first egg. I ran out front to show my children who were playing with neighbor children representing 9 different households. They were openly excited. Taking turns holding it and showing it off to the neighbor children. Some of the younger neighbors caught on to the thrill but most of them could not understand why we were so happy. It wasn't a new video game or even something to satisfy a sugar craving.

I love this about the simpler lifestyle. The real thrills in life are a wild sunset, a new egg, the first red tomato that no one saw coming because it was hidden under some leaves. When we become engrossed in media and addicted to things that bring instant satisfaction our hearts stop leaping at a new thought from Proverbs or something cute that the baby does or even, "Papa's home!!".

I was just like those neighborhood children when I was little. I remember a neighbor friend of mine coming over after Christmas. I was complaining about my presents and she was shocked. I had so many new toys. They were all over my room. She told me how I should be responding to gifts, with thankfulness. She went home and didn't play with me that day because I couldn't stop moping.

 I remember going over to her house once after school and having to help her with chores before we could play. She even had to get started on dinner for her mom. She was happy to do it and did a good job. She was a happy, satisfied person. I felt sorry for her because she couldn't just come home, grab a bowl of sugar cereal and watch TV like I could. I felt entitled to service and getting what I wanted when I wanted it. She was really the lucky one.
I don't blame my mom, she taught me where to look for satisfaction. I am now going to the source of inspiration and learning to be thankful.