Those of us who own old houses have a maxim: “Never say you’ll be happy when the house is all fixed up, because then you’ll never be happy.” Old houses always have something that isn’t right. You have to love the process and decide to be happy with your house right now, or else you’ll pretty much be miserable all the time.

Did your mother have a perfectionist streak? Do you? Are you unable to relax until everything in your life is just right? A spiritual gift that I crave for myself and pray for you to have is the serenity of spirit to find joy in little things. Jesus wants that for you too. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Are you so focused on big schemes and dreams that you don’t notice the spectacular flowers at your feet? Did you miss yesterday’s stunning sunset because you were in a funk over your frustrating day? As you yearn for diaper emancipation and are so disappointed that you’re not there yet, did you miss your toddler’s toothy smile and merry eyes? You know, the people I most love hanging out with, the ones I slide over to in a room, are the ones who seem to have learned how to rejoice always.

I want them to teach me how to do that.