“Cleanliness is next to Godliness.” I’ve heard that one for years. I need to know though, what’s the catchy saying for “clutterliness?” (Is that even a word?) In “BTP” times (Before The Pandemic), clutter could easily be blamed on our neighbors. “Oops, be careful walking there. Those kids next door! We can’t seem to stop them from leaving their toys in the most inconvenient places!” Pots, pans, mugs, glasses, spoons, you name it, heaped dangerously high on the kitchen counter? No problem! “If I’ve told those kids next door once, I’ve told them a thousand times. I don’t mind if you wanna play make-believe rock n’ roll drummer in this kitchen, but you gotta put everything back where it belongs!”
So, what are we supposed to use for an excuse when our home flunks the white glove test, in the midst of a pandemic/stay-at-home situation? Fortunately, with the way things are, few visitors will be stopping by. Phew! (If need be though, there’s always the “isolated tornados in the area” excuse.)
Seriously though, if you live in a spotless home and can manage to stay organized, I am in awe of your gift! Here I thought in March, at the start of the stay-at-home time, “Just think of all the things you’ll be able to accomplish around the house. After all, work has such a way of cutting into your day—time lost from turning your home into a scene from Better Homes and Gardens.”
So, through the days, weeks and months, while peacefully pondering my at-home situation from the comfort of an oh-so-comfy family room recliner, thoughts of vacuum cleaners, Playtex gloves, cleaning potions, mops and brooms, dustpans, dusting cloths, washing machines and dryers, often swirl willy-nilly in the back of my mind. Of course, everyone knows it is important to rest, too. So I do take the time to enjoy a cool refreshing tall glass of iced orange-infused water. (Thinking is scientifically proven to inspire a well-deserved thirst!)
Lately, in my ponderings, I’ve also been thinking that God loves each of us dearly, whether we are good organizers, are able to perform magic with a broom and dustpan, are homeless or live in a shanty or a showplace. Let’s rejoice in that and try to be kind to ourselves by not comparing who we are, where we live, what we own, or our blessed gifts and talents to anyone else’s, for any reason.
Dear God,
During these particularly stressful times, please help us remember to be kind to ourselves. After all, if we don’t love ourselves, how can we love others? Amen.
________________________________________________________________
I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. (Jeremiah 31:3)
With blessings and peace,
Rodican Rose Bonn
Chaplain