Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths” (MEV).

Before my eldest grandchild, Joseph, was in kindergarten, I would occasionally drive him to preschool. His brother James came along for the ride. The only problem was finding the school. My son would give me instructions, but I would regularly miss his first landmark. One day I dropped Joseph off after some minutes of wandering and took James to the local Dunkin Donuts. Then I sent my son a picture of our adventure. Josh called me and inquired how I would consistently miss a landmark that was a short distance before my destination but could find a donut shop three miles away in an unfamiliar town that wasn’t on the way! Of course, I had a logical explanation. I was looking the other direction when I passed Josh’s guidepost, and…we were hungry for donuts.

The day that this article will be in your local paper, I will be teaching a seminar entitled “Under the Umbrella.” The focus of the event is exercising discernment in balancing life and setting priorities. My method of planning and making the most of each day is to determine what is most important (my umbrella) and sorting accordingly. I have already noted that I like yummy pastries but, more significantly, I enjoy spending time with special people in an enjoyable setting.

Where we end up in life and whether we are generally content with our circumstances and relationships depend in large part on the choices we make. Because I enjoy people, places, and activities, I would choose to be participating in three activities in three settings (maybe not in the same geographical area) simultaneously. But, obviously, even if this were possible, it would be draining and confusing at best! How and what we choose for each day makes a tremendous difference. Just as two streams may start at the same point but end up miles apart because of the directions of their flow, each life decision takes us further along a helpful or harmful path.

My overall umbrella is God. I try to start each day in consultation with Him and then say a prayer of release for the day. I invite you to be intentional in your selection process, seeking divine guidance and setting priorities that involve being responsible, loving, and fun. Give yourself permission to live life to the fullest!

Barb Yorks, First Presbyterian Church, Lewisburg