“If you take a cup and then complain about how little you received, you weren’t ready for more anyway.” ~ Steve Case
I read that quote this morning and it dawned on me that I have been walking around with a tiny cup most of my life wondering, “Why am I unhappy?” I wasn’t truly open to receive all of the blessings life has to offer. I tried to control every aspect of my life and the lives of others close to me. By keeping my focus small, I basically lived in a box. I climbed out of that box occasionally and lived sometimes but for the most part I found comfort residing inside that box…holding my tiny little cup. I wanted to protect everything I had and I didn’t realize by doing this I was giving up so much more. I lost my joy. I lost me.
I remember my old cat Oscar. He used to sit on the sink in the bathroom and wait for me to turn on the faucet. My other cats were content to drink from the bowl. But Oscar wanted a steady flow of water. He waited for it and he was always ready to receive it. Maybe that is a silly analogy but it reminds me of God being the living water.
John 4:14 “But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
God wants so much more for me. Instead of walking around asking him to fill up my tiny little cup, he wants me to carry around a bucket. Maybe even a 30-gallon drum. Maybe I am supposed to sit by the sink, like Oscar. Maybe I actually need to dive in the ocean instead of just sticking my toes in. The more I am willing to accept into my life, the more blessings I will receive.
Willingness to accept God’s blessings changes everything. Trust me, I know. I was blessed before my journey began but now I realize it and yes, I am ready for more. When you see others receiving more and wonder why you aren’t as well…check the size of your cup. You must believe in order to receive. Maybe you are due for an upgrade too.
I went for a bike ride this afternoon by myself. I have never wandered far from where I am staying in Japan but I now have a little route filled with shopping, food, and a Starbucks, of course. I saw this t-shirt in one of the stores today and I might have to go back and buy it. The lettering is a bit off but the message is right on. “The journey causes a miracle.” Yes, indeed it does. The more willing I am to move out of my comfort zone the more joy I feel on the inside. I stood there in that store with my heart full of so much gratitude I was about to burst. I hoped no one saw this weird American lady crying while holding a t-shirt.
This morning my friend’s neighbors were kind to invite me to go along with them to visit a flower museum. It was a beautiful place and an unexpected experience. They also invited me to join them on a day trip tomorrow and I gladly accepted. I’ve traded in my cup for a bucket. I plan to enjoy every moment while here and take every opportunity I am given. The journey causes a miracle…if you are willing to accept it. I accept.
Blessings,
Stacey ~ iamalive
