Parrish Grist Mill, Saw Mill and Covered Bridge at George L. Smith State Park
Article by Norma W. Beaird
Photography by Curtis and Norma Beaird
Many times in life, we must choose to be content.
Sometimes, either by our own decisions or life's unforeseen circumstances, we end up in situations that are not considered the most desirable. Sometimes, we end up living in places that we normally wouldn't have chosen. Sometimes, we end up taking certain jobs because it was the only opportunity available at the time.
And then there are times that we live around family members or work around coworkers who have a less-than-enthusiastic zest for life. Sometimes we end up in financial situations that were not a part of the grand scheme of things, maybe due to job loss, illness, family problems or credit card debt due to poor planning.
Then the question......what now?
You've heard the old saying, "Misery loves company." That is so true. If you realize that you are in a miserable situation (at least in your eyes) and then you spread that feeling of misery through constant complaining, soon you'll be in a situation that seems next to impossible to change.
At that point, if you're in a situation that won't allow you to relocate or even change jobs......or, if your circumstance, for whatever reason, dictates that you must stay where you are, you need to re-evaluate your outlook on life and your future plans. You need to find something positive and redeeming about where you are.
Barn Swallow at George L. Smith State Park
You may not like that rural area that you moved to; however, you are surrounded by the beauty of nature and the serenity of quietness. You may not appreciate that big city where your job is located; however, you may have an abundance of restaurant, museum and entertainment options.
You may be in the role of a caretaker that consumes a lot of your time; but in those quiet moments, you may have the opportunity to learn to knit, learn to bake, start a blog or read a book. Quiet times can be very inspirational.
If you're currently suffering financially and can't afford the summer vacation or fancy restaurant, don't let that discourage you. Find joy in taking a turkey sandwich and chips to the local state park. Go to Google and search for the free things to do in your area or state that doesn't require a second mortgage. After all, so many times in life, we spend money on food, accommodations and entertainment that is honestly overpriced.
Cypress Trees at George L. Smith State Park
To give you an example, on Memorial Day weekend, we wanted to ride somewhere for a couple of days and enjoy a mini-vacation. However, we began to check the hotels and condo rentals on the Georgia coast and found the prices to be way too expensive. After all, we don't spend that much time in the hotel or vacation rental because we're outside photographing birds and nature. That's why we take our vacation in the fall of the year - the prices basically drop 50% or more.
Therefore, because we didn't want to "float a loan" to take a mini-vacation, we found a lovely Georgia state park about an hour away and decided to take a day trip. We enjoyed a nice meal of grilled chicken at a moderately-priced restaurant next to a scenic pond with Canadian Geese. Then, we eagerly moved on to the state park to view the beauty of an old grist mill and the mesmerizing Cypress trees in a huge lake of coffee-colored water. It was peaceful and beautiful, and we photographed some amazing nature scenes.
Northern Mockingbird at Thain Pond in Metter, Georgia
So, take this day to look at your situation, and then look all around you. Is there something you've missed? Could you be in a better situation than you perceive? Could the lack of funds actually turn into an opportunity to use your God-given creativity? Never miss an opportunity to be resourceful and creative.
Maybe the situation that you're in is actually a blessing in disguise. As another old saying goes......"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!"
Bloom where you're planted! (Who said that?)
1 Timothy 6: 6 - 10
(King James Version)
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Copyright 2013, Norma W. Beaird. All rights reserved.
