Friday, September 17, 2010

Lessons from the Edge

Imperfections are OK!

That's a big statement for a recovering Type-A, perfectionist control-freak like me to make! But it's one of the lessons I've been learning through my work at Edgewood.

*When we're setting up for special events, there are always a few residents who want to help. So I'll ask them to set napkins on the tables, or put balloons around the room.
*I always move the tables and chairs around in the Activity Room to give us more space during Exercise Class. And though I am perfectly willing to put them back when we're finished, several of the residents would rather do it for me.
*And there are a couple of women who love to help clean up the dining room after meals or parties - by picking up trash or wiping the tables.

These jobs are almost never completed according to my level of perfectionism. The napkins may not be straight. The chairs might not get pushed in all the way - or they may be put in the wrong location all together. And there are frequent missed spots on the tables, which must be gone over again by some of the kitchen staff.
But I've learned these imperfections are OK.
The men and women who are helping receive so much joy from the thought that they are making a contribution. They are able to give, to do, to work - and it makes them happy. And the delight in their eyes at the work of their hands far outweighs any re-doing or adjusting which is required after they have finished helping.

Kind reminds me of life with toddlers. Imperfections are OK! *grin*

Karen

9 comments:

Patricia said...

Oh don't I know it!! And like you, I am also a "recovering Type A" which I didn't even know I was until Kiara came along! ;)

Last night I let her dredge the pork chops & I found myself clenching my fists, holding my breath, hoping they wouldn't fall all over the floor! lol! Guess what?! She did FABULOUS!! So what there were little piles of flour all over the counter, she did such a fabulous job & was soooo proud of herself!!! Lesson for me, that's for sure!!

Have a great weekend!
Hugs!!
Patricia

Jerralea said...

This is a lesson I wish I had learned better when my kids were little. My perfectionism then robbed me of some help today!

Perfectionism really is a sickness ...

Alene said...

I struggle here too girl! Thanks for sharing. Bless you as you speak into others lives.

TheUnSoccerMom said...

I'm a "rather do it myself" kind of girl too and I really struggle letting go of things.

I have to remind myself, a lot, that it's not all up to me! God has the ultimate control. :o)

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!!

Karen Hossink said...

Patricia - Kids reveal those things in us!
I'm glad Kiara had a good experience in the kitchen. And yay for you - being able to say "So What"! *grin*

Jerri - I believe it is, too.

Alene - I am enjoying some wonderful opportunities to speak into the lives of men and women at Edgewood. Praying God will help me speak clearly!

Jodi - "Let it go" is almost as hard for me to say as "Imperfections are OK"
*sheepish grin*

Leah Adams said...

Bless you, my friend, for giving those precious people dignity and purpose!! I want to be like you when I grow up!!

Leah

LisaShaw said...

God is using you to be a special Light shining HIM every where you are!!! Thanks for sharing with us. I love you!

Karen Hossink said...

Leah - Thank you. It is my joy!

Lisa - All for Him. Everywhere!

Jackie said...

I can totally relate! It's really hard letting things go, but I try my best.