Packish

Packish. It’s a term affectionately coined to describe the level of readiness of an adult child preparing to move with their parents' assistance. Susan and I have experienced this phenomenon many times over the years including just this week. "Sure, I'm good to go", they will tell us. With hope in our hearts and doubt in our minds we enter the house or apartment only to find "I'm all packed" means they have boxes, bags and tape, some things may have found their way into them, and everything is strewn around the place begging to be packed... "packish."

We've had some epic moves in recent years. We've had two uHauls full of old furniture, trash and things left behind by roommates to take to the dump. We've had two separate apartments to move out of at the same time including full packing and cleaning responsibilities. And my favorite when I flew to South Dakota with the expectation I would be picked up at the airport with a fully packed dorm room and immediately start the 18 hour drive back to Nashville, only to hear "we just need to run back to the school (an hour in the wrong direction) to finish up some last minute things." In young adult language that's translated, "I haven't even started and don't know where my wallet and keys are."

As we walked into the apartment this week Susan said to me "did it not feel easier last time?". We talked about it and concluded, no, last time wasn't easier, it's just behind us, this time is all in front of us right now. So one step at a time, we went to work.

"...I focus on this one thing; forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." (Philippians 3: 13-14) 

The work in front of you matters much more than what's behind you. Yesterday can always feel better than it was, or worse than it was, depending on how you choose to look at it. The important thing is not to let the pain of the past be an anchor to our future, nor the victories of yesterday catapult us into arrogance today. No, simply press on towards the hope of tomorrow.

Never let your expectations of others be a distraction when they are not met. You and I fail to meet other people's expectations of us every day. That's just part of being human. The Bible also says to do EVERYTHING without complaining, especially moving your adult children. That's a joy to be grateful for as so many people never even get that opportunity.

What anchors in your past do you need to pull up so you can sail forward? What pedestals are you standing on from prior accomplishments do you need to step down from so you can walk in grace towards tomorrow?

Whatever the task at hand, take it one step at a time. It's not too big of a challenge, it just takes pressing on to the end of the race. And when someone asks for help and you show up and they have pack-ished, just smile and get to work. The prize is in heaven if we just believe in it and press on towards it. God has made a place for you….and the best news is, there’s no need to pack!