A Doctorate?

Well, I’ve decided to get a doctorate.  I know I don’t even have a masters degree yet, so this is a big commitment.  I’m doing a little alternative education.  I recently read that it takes 10,000 hours to become a bonafide expert in something.  I figure that if I reach the 10,000 hour mark, I will be deserving of a doctorate.  I’m not sure who will sign my certificate though. 

My courses take place 24 hours a day.  I just have to choose when I’m participating in them.  I did have a clinical a few mornings ago.  It all began when Brent did something that made me mad.  It wasn’t a big deal.  We were having a bit of morning rush and he said something I didn’t agree with.  I felt the spark light in me.  You know what I’m talking about.  The spark that makes you want to be sure you’re opinion is known on the topic.  The typical Heather is quick to point out how what he said was wrong and to then let the anger burn in me for a while.  Then I would say a decent goodbye as he headed off to work but my heart wouldn’t be in it.

That morning was different.  I chose to put in some hours toward becoming an expert.

I nonchalantly went on to our bathroom to get ready.  My heart was beating fast.  I could feel the urge to set things straight pound with my pulse.  I sat down with my head in my hands. I couldn’t find good words so I just asked God to lead me in my thoughts.  I didn’t want to be angry with Brent.  I didn’t want my selfishness to hurt our unity.  I wanted to show him grace. 

Just like a Father who wants to help his child succeed, God flooded my mind with how He forgives me from all the wrong things I say.  He reminded me of His Truth.  Like how I don’t want to be the nag that Proverbs talks about and how my role is to respect my husband and how I need to take the log out of my own eye! 

He tenderly reminded me of His command to love each other as He loves us and to let peace rule in our hearts:

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.  Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.  Colossians 3:12-15

I conceded.  "Yes, I'll let Your peace rule."  And did it ever.  Brent and I had a great start to the day.  I could have been blah and bland. Instead I had a deep peace and joy that made me smile from the inside out.  I sent him off with my love and support.  My selfishness didn't ruin our morning.  That clinical was worth it!

Well, I added an hour or two to my degree audit (do doctorates even have those?) that morning. I’m determined to become a 10,000 hour expert at depending on our God’s guidance.   I sure do have many more hours to put in to become an expert.  And I’m looking forward to the day I habitually err on the side of gratitude, love, truth, and forgiveness in all my relationships!  Why don’t you join me in getting your doctorate too ;)    

This song came on Pandora when I was praying that morning.  Perhaps, it's a little encouragement from our Savior: