Life and Death

The idea of death surrounding me has caused me to think of the life around me.
Tomorrow is not guaranteed to anyone. This is not a new concept. But it always seems to need to hit home before it makes it home.
And it has me wondering, will we (I) ever grasp this ? How long until we (I) go back to petty issues? When will we (I) pick my battles wisely??
I understand I come with a lot of baggage, but I was talking to my stepmom tonight, which I've decided I hate that word. But she had said something to me ... so simple, yet so profound.
Ya know, when youre plate is (just so full) you cant handle anymore... well uh.... DUMP YOUR PLATE! just tip it right over... and only put on there what you want. Make your own schedual. ya know?
Prioritize. I know I dont want my life to be consumed by a job or career. I cant imagine a more
(meaningless) life. I'm sorry that I'm not sorry, but my family, and faith comes first, and if I lose a job b/c of it... not much of a loss. maybe this is a poor attitude. I'm not sure

This whole balance thing, is so crucial, yet almost always lacking in lives.

I'm really hoping to "line my ducks in a row" ... In (order)
Maybe then, a full plate wont seem so hard to manage.

Current characteristics I need to work on: Temper, Patience, Kind words.

Goal: to live as stress-free as possible. How did Christ do it? How did his heart and emotions not become so overwhelming? Uh prolly b/c he had faith.
But regardless of faith, the pain for the ones you cannot save... is enough to be unbareable.
Ha while at the same time... it isn't me saving them anyways. All Glory be to God alone.

Lord, guard my heart and my mind, may I never forget your grace and love for me. and may you be my strength, my patience, and kind words. Be my encouraging personality and positive attitude.

p.s. on another topic completely, I spent the day in Aspen, where a shirt can cost $215! This makes me sick to my stomach and I cant help but cry. People really live like this. Money means nothing. and Things mean everything. :( My heart aches.
<3