I am imperfect!

""We leave something incomplete everyday, whether it's an area of housework, school, work, friendship, ministry ~ because we are finite.""

~ from The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaeffer~

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imperfect

Old-order Amish quilt makers have a tradition where they purposely stitch one flaw into their work to represent the fact that only God is perfect.

Why do we as women struggle so hard to be perfect rather than accepting our limitations and working with them instead of against them?

I used to suffer from the perfectionist's nightmare called "Superwoman Syndrome" - A.K.A The Martha Madness.

If there was anything to do in the church, I was there to do it, partly because I thought it was the duty of the pastor's wife and partly because I just needed everyone to think highly of me since I couldn't think very highly of myself.

Then of course, I worked part time to supplement the family income because though our small rural churches did the best they could, it was still difficult to make ends meet with three growing children at home.

Homemaking was never my strong suit, but DH and the kids did need food, clothing and a reasonably clean shelter, so I shouldered that burden as well.

On the top of my life quilt, things appeared neat and tidy, but only God and I saw all the knots and tangles on the underside and most of the time I refused to look at them because then I would have to admit my "flaws."

To leave things undone would mean I wasn't capable of handling things for my family, my job and my church. I couldn't forgive myself for failure.

No one can live like that forever. It always leads to burnout and depression. I had to learn to prioritize the things in my life, especially my relationship with the Lord. In Him there is healing and life and peace. When I put Him first each day, I can get more done than I can by myself and I can forgive myself for the things I left undone each day. They will still be there tomorrow or the day after.

I still live a "flawed" existence, but instead of it being a condemnation for my imperfection, it is a reminder of things the Spirit of God and I will continue to work on until I rest perfect in His presence!

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This week, Lori is hosting "In 'Other' Words" at her site, All You Have To Give. If you'd like to participate, simply blog about the quote on your site, then visit Lori and leave your blog address along with a comment for her. Please feel free to check out the blogs of the other participants as well to see theior take on the quote!