I just read a blog post that sparked a new line of thought for me. 

It was by a wife blogging about a rare instance of seeing her Type A, driven husband relaxed on vacation, and then returning home to the crease in his brow and the stress of his days. She wasn't whining, he wasn't whining, because he loves what he does. 

My first thought was, "What. Oh no! Stress! Run! Change your job! Anything to get away." 

But that's incredibly short sighted. 

If it weren't for people willing to be stressed we would have no surgeons, doctors, paramedics, CEOs, presidents, pastors, entertainers, friends, or parents. No one would do ever do anything significant. No one would risk anything. 

I questioned myself: is it only me that's afraid of doing things because it might stress me out, or do other people think about this too? Furthermore, is it fear of stress that prompts me to say no, or a balanced management of a productive, and yet happy life? 

I don't want stress to drive my life. 

I want to use up my life for God; for people. I believe that if wisely done, this should bring a peace that will help to counter-balance stress. This wouldn't mean to quit making thoughtful decisions (because no one can do it all) but it does mean exploring ways to make my life is effective and useful. 

I repeat, I don't want to do more, but I do want to make sure that what I'm doing counts. 

I'm soaking in every word from the book "Essentialism" right now. It's required reading for a study course and it keeps inviting me to shady, green places where I can breath and gain perspective on my life. If you, too, would like to read or possibly buy it I've included a link that helps you and helps me. Win win. **

Until next time, au revoir. 

**L. Raine is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.