Where there are no children...

I just love reading the Proverbs.  They are the perfect way for people to begin mini reading plans since there are 31 of them and hey, there are 31 days in a normal month.  One for each day!  You'll never forget which Proverb to read. 

Okay...enough random musings...on with my point.

The other day I was reading and actually had a moment where I laughed out loud.  It followed quickly with my verbal affirmation of "SO TRUE!".  All you moms out there, I think if you just allow this verse to relate to you for a moment, enjoy getting a smile:

Where there are no oxen the manger is clean,

but abundant crops come from the strength of the ox. (Proverbs 14:4)

You see my laugh came right after the first line, because I couldn't help but associate that kind of mess to my own house.  But then my "so true" came immediately following the second line.  

Our life is full of these juxtaposed moments.  Moments that when compared to each other allow the positive outlook to win.  For the positive is the afterthought...what comes second...the last word.  

Where there are no oxen..

...began eventually lending itself to...

Where there are no children...

Wait?!  How dare I allow my mind to wander to such a thought?  But then I remember, it's not so much about the negative as long as I let my last word be that of a different perspective.  One full of gratitude -  redefining every tired and weary complaint.

So I made a few "verses" of my own.  Once I got going, it was pretty fun!

Where there are no children there is much sleep,

BUT much joy comes from seeing their smiles in the dark.

Where there are no children my to-do lists actually have a line through them,

BUT oh the beauty in slowing down each moment.

Where there are no children my social calendar is full,

BUT how rewarding it is to snuggle on the couch with our family of three.

Where there are no children my outfits match and I feel fashionable,

BUT how much more special it is to revel in the act of dressing up.

Where there are no children I can eat out and leave the house anytime I want,

BUT much knowledge has been gained and new recipes tried as I cook in my own kitchen!

Where there are no children my laundry load was MUCH smaller,

BUT how it melts my heart to hang up itty bitty baby socks.

My list could go on, but instead I'll save it for when I need something to help me while I wait ;)

Who knew there could be such beauty in the "BUT"?