Why is Doing the Dishes so Satisfying?

I am probably the only person who has done this, but I occasionally leave dirty dishes in the sink. I put water and detergent in them, content to let them “soak”. The longer they sit “soaking” the more gross they become and the original mess continues to grow. When I finally wash the dishes and/or put them in the dishwasher I always feel better. Some issues in life are just like dirty dishes-the longer you let them “soak”, the messier the problem becomes. If I could only remember that dealing with the mess head-on is the best practice. When I am able to deal with things head-on I make more room for the positive things going on around me. I am not wasting time thinking about the mess that is looming in the kitchen sink. Take care of the problems you encounter right away, don’t let them grow or spend your precious time thinking about them. Use your time in the present to enjoy the wonderful things going on around you. That reminds me I have some dishes soaking in the sink …..

Do Not Do That Again!

I have a wonderful six-year-old grand-nephew who is bright, articulate, and very forthright. A few weeks ago he went in for his annual medical check up. The nurse needed a small blood sample and without any forewarning pricked his finger with a needle. He reacted by saying in a loud voice, “Do Not Do That Again”! His Mom and the Nurse enjoyed a good laugh. I love that he responded so honestly, we could all do well by following his lead. Picture saying that to your Boss the next time she reprimands you in the staff meeting in front of everyone. Or how about using it on the friend who cancels lunch by text message five minutes after she was supposed to meet you just like she has done several times before. How about telling this to your neighbor who sends his dog over to use your lawn as a restroom. The possibilities for using this phrase are endless. I love you Grayson, you are a constant inspiration!