You're young. Do whatever you want while you can!
When your college debt is paid off, go on vacations, buy things and treat yourself.
Get all your adventure out of your system before you settle down and have a family.
I trust that the intentions behind the advice are good. But I must say that I'm disappointed overall with the assumptions behind these tips- that the world is ours, we are entitled to play, spend and live lavishly if that is what we desire. We get to choose what makes us happy and operate out of the timeline of our very perfect, very American expectations. I'm disappointed because of the way it matches what I hear so loudly from the media and product marketing.
I want it. I deserve it. I will get it. Now.
It's really gross.
Shouldn't we, the people of God, be giving different words of wisdom?
The message of enough teaches me contentment. It tells me that having more is not bad, though it should never become my identity and source of happiness. Enough teaches me gratitude for what it is that I do have, peace about what I do not. Enough reminds me that abundance comes from the hand of the lavish Giver, not from my hard work or what I can buy. Enough says that His way is the very best way. Contentment is a choice. It's the fruit of understanding the message of enough.
If I were an older, wiser woman speaking to myself today, here's what I would say:
No amount of money will make you feel fulfilled and secure.
A happy, full life means being submerged in purposeful Kingdom work, not running around looking for something better.
More stuff doesn't mean more joy, it just means more stuff.
Your life has never been about you and it never will be. Work, make decisions, and dream about the things the Lord dreams about for you. Then pursue those.
Just another way that enough and the American Dream are so very opposite. Which do you choose?
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