Celebrate Small Successes

A common saying is “don’t lose sight of the forest for the trees.” I tend to have the problem. I now and then mistake the trees for the forest.

I’m consumed by the things I haven’t done. I didn’t introduce myself to someone. I didn’t write a new poem. I didn’t read over the weekend. I didn’t, I didn’t, I didn’t.

By the time I finish my list of shortcomings, I’m convinced that the larger thing, the forest, is impossible to accomplish. Fully funding a Kickstarter? Writing a business book? Meeting that person? All unfeasible.

I forget the small successes that fill the forest. I neglect the trees that stand as testaments to God’s grace and truth. I forget how He’s seen me thus far.

Fortunately, God knows how forgetful I am. He lets the scent of pine catch my attention, and, sometimes, it’s the scent of an actual pine tree. It enfolds me and unfolds memories.

Other times, it’s a word from someone on Twitter, a comment on Instagram, a handwritten letter from a friend. They may not know it, but they’re celebrating my small successes. They’re giving me the word I need in that moment.

All those things encourage me. They tell me of the small successes, the things I’d forgotten in the midst of doing the work. I touch their bark. I rest my cheek against their rough surface and savor their presence.

I let them go and move onward. I have more to do. I have encouraging words to give because, if I’m prone to forgetfulness and need reminders of small successes and God’s constant, guiding presence, others need them, too.

Image: Austin Anderson (Creative Commons)