There was a pretty clock in the bathroom where I visited recently that I glanced at each morning when I brushed my teeth. The first couple of days, I noticed I was up between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., a normal time for me. However, the third morning when I showered later than usual, I realized the clock was back on 6:15.
I found an answer for those situations several years ago when I was trying to mend what appeared to be an irreconcilable relationship. It seemed no matter what I did, it was misunderstood, and I ended up hurt or disappointed. I felt pretty miserable about it until one morning as I was reading the Bible, Romans 12:18 jumped out at me. The verse says:
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 
I had read the verse many times, but that day, If it is possible seemed to be illuminated! The words stopped me in my tracks. Could it be that some things were just beyond my power to change? In that moment, I understood that it was not up to me to fix that particular relationship. All I had to do was be kind if I saw the person and to stay open to reconciliation.
The freedom that accompanied the revelation was astounding. Even though I had to remind myself occasionally not to fall back into the worry-and-fix-it cycle, I’m happy to say I was able to release the individual from expectations on my part. Over a period of time, the problem seemed to resolve itself.
I wish I could say I always remember to “let go and let God,” but I don’t. Periodically, I have to deal with worry, hurt or disappointment whirling around in my head. However, I’ve been blessed with friends who lend an ear as I talk things through.
I’m grateful for their encouragement and understanding as they help me get over it and move on! Their support in the process reminds me of an old Billy Preston song.
At the risk of planting it in your mind, read on!
Will It Go Round in Circles?
I’ve got a song, I ain’t got no melody
I’ma gonna sing it to my friends
I’ve got a song, I ain’t got no melody
I’ma gonna sing it to my friends
Will it go round in circles?
Will it fly high like a bird up in the sky?
Will it go round in circles?
Will it fly high like a bird up in the sky?
What about you? Do songs or problems ever get stuck in your head? What’s your solution?
Love … bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. I Cor. 13:7-8
I am so thankful for your friendship.
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It's still 6:15 at my house:) It seems my mind is always working out a solution to some problem. Usually if I sleep in it, things are clearer in the morning:) And yes, some problems may be beyond our control.
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I love that picture, the flowers, woodwork and clock. Your bathroom is so pretty. I'd keep the clock too. It's a lovely thing. And yes, sleeping on it is always a good idea.
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I suppose the problem you mention is a common situation for many people. What a wonderful solution, Dorothy, one that can help me grow, too! I'm so very thankful to have you as my friend. You are someone I truly admire.
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Thanks, Freeda. You're very kind. I wish I always responded like this a the first hint of discord. It did help me through a long-term family situation. I am grateful!
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I love that verse. This post has hit close to home for me at this particular time, DJ., so Thanks! It helped!
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I read/clipped something that fits this topic (there's a sad situation in my life, too): “We are always responsible for our reactions, which includes recognizing that getting angry and expecting others to make things right aren't the only choices…”–Carolyn HAX, Washington Post
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I'm glad it resonated with you. It seems to be part of the way of relationships. It made a difference for me, for sure!
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Wise woman. Isn't she in the Dem-Gaz? I think as women/mothers we sometimes take on responsibility to make things right as in fix things that we can't begin to do. It made a difference with this family member and me, for which I will be eternally grateful!
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