Is it just me, or do some of these newer cliches bug you as
much as they do me? A big one for me awhile back was the use of the word “impacted” when
applied to something besides teeth. Even Daniel Webster succumbed to this one!
The latest one that bugs is “at the end of the day.” (Feels
like fingernails scraping an old backboard!) Come on now? At the end of what day? Or is that
which day? (I know. I will die in the land of grammar geekness.)
That said, what I want to tell you is about a new one – one I
have embraced. It all started with my grandson, Boe, age 5. Recently, when his mom
caught him doing something he shouldn’t, his quick little mind shot back, “It was by
accident.”
“No, I don't think so," his mom responded. He looked at his toes and then asked her, “Then, was it by
purpose?”
Ever since Elaine told me about this, Gene and I have been
asking ourselves: Did we do this “by purpose” or “accident?"
I know the syntax is messed up on this one, too, but it's
giving me something to strive for. Obviously, not in the childish way he used to get himself out
of trouble. But, by flipping it over and living by purpose – in a good way!
In my case, this is going to require a whole lot less
puttering! (If you know of a 12 step program, let me know!) “By purpose,” I want to hold my tongue
in the heat of a disagreement, instead of snapping back. “By purpose,” I want to focus much less on
my daily “To Do” list, and more on what God suggests. “By purpose,” I want this to be a better year!
Some call it living intentionally, but I like “by purpose" better.
This year, “at the end of the day” - Ouch! - my desire is to
“impact” -Double Ouch! - my world in a better way by living each day by purpose.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do,
everywhere you go; He's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all.”
Proverbs 3:5,6 The Message translation of the Bible
Tickler: I haven't written in this blog Annie set up for me
in, well, quite awhile. I'll explain at a later date. I just wanted get my feet wet again. Thanks for listening.
And, hey! May you have a year
filled with purpose, too.
Boe in a box.
