Kate said INFLUENCE
Such a loaded word. Everything, whether good or bad, influences us one way or another.
I have had wonderful people in my life who have influenced me in excellent ways. And the opposite is true also, I’ve had un-wonderful people influence me. My wasband influenced the way I saw myself, ugly and undesirable. The influence was zero self-worth.
TV shows influence. Video games influence. Podcasts influence.
My definition of influence: an effect that leaves a lasting impression.
Today, I am careful what I allow “in” as we all should.
The word reminds me of a Sunday School chorus and I’ll close this five-minute essay singing \o/
O be careful little ears what you hear; O be careful little ears what you hear; There’s a Father up above looking down on us in love; O be careful little ears what you hear!
The verses change like this: O be careful little eyes what you see; O be careful little hands what you do; O be careful little feet where you go.
Everything and everyone influences us in some way.
O be careful what you let in.
Your use of “wasband” is poignant and yet wonderful.
(FMF #8)
I did not originate the word – a dear friend gets credit for it – but it is ever so appropriate! Thanks for visiting, Amy.
So good to remember the childhood song! The influences we let in are critical to the influence we will then have. Thank you for turning my thoughts to think on this as well today!
Yes ma’am.
It took me a minute to figure out ‘wasband’ ;). The older I get, the more I uderstand the power of what I let in. When I was young, I was too smart for my own good ;).
Weren’t we all?
Lovely song. Thanks for sharing
Next time we’re together I’ll sing it for you!!!
You always hear the question: “Is life REALLY better in our 30’s?” (40’s/50’s- whatever milestone birthday) and I think this is one of the reasons for so many, that the answer is yes. We begin to understand things… things that were told to us (countlessly) but we were “too smart”, or “knew better”, or had it all figured out…
I am grateful for age and know that this is why WISE is synonymous with it.
Big amen!
Thanks for the reminder of that precious song! One of the few songs that I can remember hearing my Mother sing. (She thought she could not “carry a tune.”) Loved the fuller meaning you emphasized here. Yes Lord.
YAY, you know the song!!!
My wasband influenced me negatively in similar ways. I am in a new season of trying to develop boundaries to limit negative influences. Thank you for this encouragement Susan.
Jolene, boundaries are CRITICALLY important. You are God’s beloved daughter — that is WHO WE ARE.
I find the need to be wary of what I let in vital; if I let my morale or outlook take a hit, it’s hard to recover, and cancer’s job becomes a whole lot easier.
I hear you brother.
So good!
xoxo
xo
“Be careful what you let in.”
Boy, how true that is! I’m a news junkie, and while I know that I need to be informed about the world, it’s easy to develop a very cynical and unloving attitude if I consume too much. I’m learning to find the balance between knowing what’s happening and knowing that, no matter what, God is in control – and that’s what truly matters.
And, that God is sovereign over all of it!!! (re: news, etc)
God’s timing is a kick! I had just thought of this very topic this morning before I ever even opened your newsletter. (Thank you for the newsletter; it ensures I read your wise words.)
Music, words, feelings, TV, people, so much to influence us. We must pick and choose wisely and well and I was convicted this morning about having loving boundaries around all of the areas. I used to be vigilant about TV, social media, etc. I have gotten lax and need to refortify the walls. I’ve never been good at boundaries with people and relationships. I’m learning that I can still love people but keep those inner-peace-protecting boundaries at full strength.
Loved your definition of influence. It is spot on.
Love you!
Shelbz, we all need to.