There are several steps that compose the cleaning process, but the first, and most important in my opinion, is the removal of whatever filth might have accumulated. Sometimes it’s just a thin layer of dust on a shelf, while other times it might be a year’s worth of soap scum on a bathtub (hopefully in none of our houses!) but either way, this filth must be removed. It is an essential step if you want to create a space that is pleasing to all who enter.
This last week at work, I moved into a new office. Originally, I was really excited about the chance to have a fresh start, but that excitement has slowly faded into a dull urge to finish what seems like a never-ending process. The truth is it really isn’t an issue of setting up my office because I have a perfect mental picture of what the end results will look like. The problem that seems to be delaying everything is the amount of cleaning I have to do prior to starting the decorating aspects. During my cleaning adventure, I have found dust and bug particles tucked into the crevices and corners of my new work abode, as well as useless outdated items that never should have made it into my possession.
In the midst of all my cleaning and rearranging, I have been thinking about other areas of my life that I have allowed to fall into a similar state. One of the first places my mind races to is how I care for my physical body. This year, my husband and I started making conscious efforts to live a healthier lifestyle, both in how we eat and the level of physical activities we participate in. There have been many days that I can’t seem to find that initial excitement about becoming healthier, especially during those moments when I see how far I have to go to get to my goal. I have a good realistic picture of my end goal. Unfortunately, the choices I have made over the years about what I let into my body have had an effect that must now be cleaned up before I can achieve that picture.
No matter where my cleaning efforts are focused, being conscious about what is allowed into my world, whether physically, emotional or mentally, can save me major steps later on down the road. Are there areas in your life where you might need to be more conscious of what is entering? Share with us any tips you have!
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Wow… this almost has me in tears right now. There are areas of our lives that we have let go for so long that when we get to them, they are so messed up it seems that they will never resemble the picture we have in our heads… But just as with the cleaning metaphor, we CAN make a change and CAN bring back the beauty from the ashes with consistent actions fueled by the Holy Spirit’s power.
I’m leaving on a walk right now – thanks for spurring me on!
Bringing about “mind full living” truly involves letting go and simplifying life – letting go, bringing focus, putting a routine into place and allowing time to hear one’s voice.
Meditation is one of the best ways to find calm and to feel cleansed.
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I have been watching the show ‘Hoarding” and that makes me want to really minimize any and all ‘collections’ of everything I own. The older I get the better I like the ‘having less to deal with’ way of life. Thanks for the great thoughts and ideas. I am wanting to truly start some sort of meditation – I think this would be a great way to clear out the cobwebs in the mind and body.
You have given me alot to think about. Thanks!
I am completely stuck in a cleaning rut
I recently gave up Diet Coke and this makes me feel even better for doing so!
Unfortunately, there are several things in my life that I can completely relate to this right now. I’ve let them fall by the wayside and now it seems like I won’t be able to get them where they’re supposed to be. Thanks for the incentive to get off my butt and start some action.
Thanks needed a push today!
there are always things that will fall by the wayside, and sometimes its trying to keep up with them that will drive you crazy! Do what you can but also remember not to let yourself stress out over things like that that you forget the bigger picture!
My husband and I have been doing Weight Watchers, to love a few extra lbs, so far so good. And, I have given up eating red meat, for personal reasons. Excercise and watching what we eat
Thanks for the thought-provoking article!
It’s like when you move and buy a new house! You ask them to clean but it’s never up to your standards! Ugh I hate that!!
I needed that!
Thanks! You are so right and I need to take some action.
great article…got me thinkin’!
“No matter where my cleaning efforts are focused, being conscious about what is allowed into my world, whether physically, emotional or mentally, can save me major steps later on down the road.”
So wise & so very true!!
Isnt it funny how we clean one thing and then we realize our internal needs so much more. I bought an oatmeal organizer this week – now i have redone both pantries and started a “new eating syle”
I have a lot that I need to clean up, too. It seems like when I start cleaning, I just can’t stop. Too bad it’s hard to get much of anything done with a 12 month old pinching your leg!
I have to be in the mood to clean, but boy when i am, i can accomplish ALOT!