A Challenge to Live Fully

A couple of years ago my book club read "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. The first time I read it, I deeply appreciated her commitment to writing down the small daily moments she was grateful for. When I finished reading, I put the book in my library- a place reserved for books that carry life nuggets I want to savor. A few months ago, I read the book again, and took away another nugget- When Ann wanted to rush through a moment, worry, overthink, or simply complete a to-do list; she learned to slow down, hit pause, and let God speak to her heart instead. With God's help, she learned to simply soak up the beauty of God's masterpiece, to appreciate the life she was blessed with, and to let God lead in the more difficult situations. She became a woman rooted in purpose and living in lightness.

Ann did not scroll through social media to find a trendy solution. She did not allow her worries and anxious thoughts to take over. She did not scramble through her to-do list day after day in hopes of a slower day tomorrow. No, she CHOSE gratitude and laid each day before God, sought the beauty of His masterpiece for the day, and asked Him to guide her steps.

This is a book I will definitely read again and again, because I will never get tired of hearing the message to live fully and be led by God daily.

Here are a few simple things I do (or I'm in the process of incorporating) in order to be more intentional with my days:

1. Dive into Scripture + Prayer Daily
Have a conversation with God- Sharing the intricate pieces of my life and also the simple joys of the day.

2. Keep a Gratitude (Simple Joys) Journal

3. Hit Pause + Hear God's Truth in All Things (Do My Best + God Will Always Do Even Better)
Especially when I have a busy day, unexpected events arise, overthinking happens, etc. Knowing I am doing the best I can and God will always do even better than any of my attempts, helps me put moments into perspective.

4. Start the Day Slowly + End the Same 
Carving out the time to savor the gifts God gives to me every single day. (My marriage, my family and friends, Dillbean, changes in season, simple luxuries, leisure activities, etc.)

How will you slow down and savor the opportunity to live fully? I would love for you to share your thoughts with me! Also, I am going to be reading "One Thousand Gifts" again SOON, so if you would like to join in, please leave me a comment or send me a message!

Brittany Pruess