Steady Days by Jamie C. Martin - Some thoughts & A Review
Last summer a friend asked about a book that intrigued me with the title - Steady Days: A Journey Toward Intentional, Professional Motherhood. As motherhood is often brushed aside in our culture these days, the "Professional Motherhood" caught my attention. Experience has taught me as well that most things that aren't 'intentional' rarely happen in practical life application!
I was one of those busy moms that everyone marvels at with little guys so close in age - except those of us who are living it out and know you just do what is needed. I was particularly gifted (or burdened) with hyper-organization & scheduling skills. Those things still come pretty easy for me; I know that isn't true for everyone. Unfortunately, we tend toward comparisons. Those with the ability to organize well also place high expectations on themselves (and sometimes their children) and wish for more spontaneity and a relaxed approach. Those who are a little challenged with what to do when and are a bit disorganized wish for structure and planning. Now, mind you, neither group would be happy with the other approach - it would probably drive us crazy! But still we look over the fence at that perfect family and sigh.
Comparisons can cheat us out of appreciating the abilities and gifts God gives us if we are not careful! We can all improve in some areas, and we should work toward that end. It starts with realistic evaluation and just some basic goals. Ask yourself what is the best thing about how your family operates right now; then ask yourself what might be something that would help in some difficult area right now? Habits take time and change is always hard. We know it takes effort and are reluctant to begin. The key is keeping our eye on the long term goal and we can get through to the benefit. And... you replace a bad habit with an opposite good one; if you want to form a good habit, it is always intentional. Actually, there is a bigger principle at work here from Ephesians 4:
20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self,[f] which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.We can only achieve these things through grace and the strength God offers us. Trust in His watchful and constant care for you and the small details of your daily schedule even!
So now on to the review... It is a good practical read for young moms. If you need a jump start on organizing or need to know how to effectively schedule your busy family's hectic days from chaos to calm, this book has some great thoughts to help you evaluate and personalize a schedule for you. I would encourage you to read it with the goal of helping you create a graceful atmosphere of order and calm in your home. You can achieve this even in the midst of a busy and fast paced season of life!
Grace for your days... through the strength God gives in Christ alone.
