I Want

I want. I want. I want.

I've been hearing these two words come out of my mouth a lot lately. I want new kitchen cabinets. I want a new winter coat. I want new shoes. I want time to myself. I want a nap. I want a bigger kitchen. I want the walls painted a different color. I want politicians to stop fighting like little children.

I want. I want. I want.

Why do I do this? Why do these words come out of my mouth? Why do I even think them as often as I do? Is it because lately, family members have been asking me what I want for Christmas? Could be. Not that it's their fault that I am in this mindset- it's not. It's me.

I see the material things that other people have, and yes, sometimes, I wish I had them. Sometimes I think that if I had a bigger kitchen or new shoes, that life would be easier...better. Yet, I know that not to be true. I know that in my heart, yet sometimes, something creeps in to my mind and allows me to think otherwise. The devil? Perhaps.

With Thanksgiving approaching, though, this sounds cliche, I know I have a lot to be thankful for. My children are healthy. My husband is a wonderful husband and father. I have a nice home to live in. My parents are healthy. I have wonderful friends. I even have a cute little miniature schnauzer that I adore. I also have God in my life, which is such a blessing, and Jesus is someone that I can turn to as a friend.

So, knowing all of this, why do I struggle? How can I stop struggling with this "I want" mentality?

I'm going to use this Advent season as a time of reflection and prayer, in order to prepare for the birth of Jesus, and in order to grow closer to Him.