I have a confession to make: I don't floss every day. In fact, there are weeks when I only floss once a week. I'm an excellent brusher, but flossing…it's not a strong suit for me.
I share this tidbit not to bring personal embarrassment, but rather to illustrate a point. I recently had the opportunity to attend a presentation by Catholic author and motivational speaker Matthew Kelly. Of the many excellent points Matthew made, one of them really struck a chord with me:
"Our lives change when our habits change."
Matthew Kelly pointed out that those people we look up to frequently have habits that help them to maximize excellence in their personal lives.
Our habits are largely within our own control. If we want to truly change our lives, we can begin by looking at the habits that separate us from being all that God has destined us and desires us to be. So, I've been thinking a lot during the past few weeks about my habits, and taking those "baby steps" toward making the changes that will bring me closer to God and better at being a wife, mother, friend and light to others in my life.
What does flossing have to do with this? Perhaps not much. But when I created a list of habits I would like to change, daily flossing appeared on the list along with many other items. Shortly after my creation of the "habits list", I had occasion to have a prolonged conversation with a dental professional in a social setting. Strangely, without any prompting on my part, she brought up the critical role that flossing plays in our dental health. It was like she could read my guilty conscience!
I've set about changing a few of my habits and yes, flossing is on the list. To change the habit, I needed the supplies (floss), the motivation (good dental health and hygiene) and the persistence. After a week of commitment to this particular habit, I am pleased to report some progress. I realize that it will take a longer stretch of time to truly habitualize this behavior, but I'm off to a good start.
"Our lives change when our habits change." There are other, far more significant habits on my list that need to be addressed. Many will require greater effort, prayer and persistence to be overcome. But knowing what I'm up against, what the desired outcomes are, and relying on God's grace and support, I'm optimistic.
Does your life need a change? What habits may contribute to that change? Next time you floss, please say a prayer for me and I'll do the same for you!
