As I walked through the mall, happy feet were everywhere. Young kids with flashing light sneakers, older ones with skate shoes, and adults with whimsical footwear. Fitting with the theme of the day was the sign in the shore store, “Find Your Happy Height”. No deep thought required. Choose the shoe and dial in how tall you would like to be given your mood. Light-hearted fun calling the child in all of us.
As the picture and memories have stayed with me, I have come to appreciate how far this approach extends across the decisions I make. Casual, carefree choices are easy. Everything else takes thoughtful work. There is a time and place for each. Yet, Life’s lingering whispers remind me that I often lose sight of the balance required. It seems to be an echo of words of caution first offered long ago; “I have a special word of caution for you who are sure that you have it all together yourselves and, because you know God’s revealed Word inside and out,” (Romans 2.19)
As the metaphors in the mall play out as lesson reminders, I find myself looking at my decisions differently.
Certain decisions can be taken with a child-like touch. Whimsical, fun, and totally based on how I am feeling at the moment. The choice between two options for dinner falls into this approach. Once made, the experience is on without a second thought.
Others required a degree of knowledge and balance. I close my eyes and see kids effortlessly skating with their shoes. As focused as they are on what they are doing, they are equally engaged in everything around them. It is as carefree as being thoughtful can be.
What remains is thoughtful consideration. It is not just about how things will look, it is about when and where I will put my choice into use. It is about enduring and being confident that this choice is one for the future.
Today will be filled with choices. It is good to remember that not every happy choice is the same.
