Cats, Wives, God...

I know this may come as a surprise to some of you...But, I'm not a morning person. Not at all. I don't like the morning. I'd like to stay up late at night and sleep in every day. I think the perfect time to start the day is around 9:30am. That's about the time I need to start consuming coffee. Around noon, the creative thoughts begin to flow...prior to noon...we'll you're lucky to get words out of my mouth. That's why I really wish our church services were in the evening...I'd really be on top of things...totally with it.

Anyway, sometimes in the morning I'm not the friendliest person in the world. Some people may refer to my state as grumpy. I'd have to say I come by it naturally, honestly...I believe it just flows down the family tree...Now, I'm not going to name which side of the family tree...But, those of you that know me and my family can probably make a fairly educated guess! Am I a bit of a grouch in the morning? Yeah, I'll admit it.

However, the fact that I'm not a "morning person" does not validate the way I treat those around me. For example, this morning I was a little short, just a tad impatient with my wife. Yep...before my wife even got to work this morning I made her cry. And, it was for very stupid reasons...I was just being impatient. Now, I didn't swear or yell at her...I just didn't treat her with kindness, gentleness, compassion, patience, and other admirable qualities. And, so, I feel a bit like a jerk. I'm terribly sorry...and I did tell her that. No excuses...the time of day is not an excuse for being mean.

Then, there's the cat...Now, I'm never mean to the cat. But, many times she just begs for attention. And, because it's the morning, I ignore her. She just wants to be loved and I just want to be left alone. So, instead of saying, "Good morning, Gatsby!" and petting her head I say something like, "Stupid cat...stop chewing on the bottom of the Christmas tree."

But look at her...isn't she cute?

So, this morning, I am fully aware of my need to think about my words, actions, and attitude...no matter the circumstances.

I read this verse yesterday and it has stuck with me since..."Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." (Hebrews 4:13)