What Bessie the Cow and I Have in Common by Jennifer Bell Riley

I blame the Container Store for my writer’s block.

As I was knocking out my Christmas list, they gave me a coupon for a year’s subscription to Real Simple. My first issue arrived the week I was writing my January post. Topic: Purpose.

I read something that set me back.

“Persistently dwelling on distressing situations from the recent or distant past (called rumination, as in that things a cow does when it constantly rechews food) can be one of the most destructive mental habits.”

Sometimes a benefit, sometimes a detriment—I have a very analytical mind. I constantly rerun situations in my mind. Yes, I have something in common with cows, it appears. I ruminate.

“Why did I say that….”

“Did she mean….”

“Why did that happen….”

“Why did he say that….”

“Should I have….”

“Was this God’s purpose….”

It became really clear in reading the article, and yes, ruminating about it for weeks, that I won’t fulfill God’s purpose for my life if I am constantly rechewing events and conversations I can’t change.

To be honest, I haven’t even begun to conquer this habit. I’m immersing myself in scripture and praying through the times when I instinctively do this. Do any of you struggle with this? What has helped? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments or you can message me through Facebook.

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What is my favorite podcast? Dr. Randy Carlson’s Intentional Living. Great show with common sense approach to solving problems with purpose.

Where do I get inspiration for parenting with purpose? I love the Epic Parent.tv blog. I can relate to almost everything he writes about! And he is a masterful title writer.

Who do I owe a favor? Our awesome editor, Anne. Thanks for working with me on my writer’s block and giving me an extension!!!