Some lessons in life are learned the hard way; this was one of them for me.

My plan...was to throw a load of laundry in and rush out the door in order to be on time for an appointment. The laundry basket was fuller than it needed to be and of course I had topped it off with a few things that needed to be brought downstairs.

"Debbie, the basket is too full, lighten the load."

I recognized His voice and I knew He was right however, this time, I answered in my heart...

"I've got it. I can handle this load."

As I rushed my way down the steps and through the kitchen I heard His still small voice again.

"Debbie, slow down, you are moving too quickly."

(To which I replied- "I've got it." I did not slow down.)

Rounding the corner and entering the laundry room my left hand smashed into the door jam...this time I was forced to stop! I looked down to my now smarting hand to make sure all my rings were intact. I have this habit of moving a ring from my right hand to my left when I am trying to remember something and on this given day, I had four rings on my left ring finger. All stones accounted for...and off I went to throw in the load and start my day.

Sometimes the consequences of our disobedience don't show up until later.

The neighbor's front lawn was speckled with clumps of colorful fabric. Pretty colors for sure, but you had no idea what you were looking at! Several hours later I drove past their home and I suddenly felt like a terribly missed friend returning after a long trip! Each one was  swaying haphazardly, arms flailing in the air. We all should be welcomed home like that!