This past weekend, I attended a morning event at a church and on my way out, I noticed a beautiful peace lily on their foyer table. It still had the florist’s delivery tag with the recipient's name on it, but the lily was dried up and slumped over. If no one watered it soon, it would be difficult to revive. I had a nearly-full water bottle and though I really wanted my water, I gave most of it to the lily and wished it well.

 

I had to come back to the church that evening, eight hours later. I had forgotten all about the lily but to my surprise, it was as good as new! Its leaves were standing up firm; the flowers were tall and proud. My good deed may never get found out but it was a great feeling to know that I had done that.

 

The next day, my own lilies got my attention. I have two and they were both wilted. There I was taking care of a stranger’s lily and I hadn’t even noticed for several days that mine were needing water, despite walking right by them multiple times a day. 

 

I can get so used to my circumstances and surroundings that I don’t realize when things begin slipping. It’s much easier to spot where someone or something else needs my help, while my own house falls into disarray. We used to travel a lot and bring in house sitters to care for our pets. I got in the habit of taking one last look around our home before the house sitter arrived, trying to see what she would see—the things out of place that I may have missed. What a great way to evaluate our lives!

 

For today, let’s look at our homes and our lives as if we’re seeing them for the very first time. What needs our attention? What deserves more of our appreciation? Helping people (and lilies) is a great thing. Staying mindful of our own needs by taking a fresh look periodically is also wise.