Limitations

Over here I listen a lot to Moody Radio as I drive around. I heard a sermon where the preacher was talking about limitations - not being able to do everything, fix everything, solve everything etc. It is interesting that in America the preacher has to remind people that they have limitations. It is a culture where you are told that you can do anything, be anything - even the President! This concept of limitations was familiar to me because I read a book earlier in the year with a chapter on "the gift of limitations" (Americans know how to make everything sound positive!). In America you don't ask for help because it makes you look weak. You have to try to convince people that working together with you towards this particular goal is to their benefit. The art of manipulation. Yet Americans are a lot more open about their emotional struggles than Aussies. It's OK to "have a moment" - as long as you can still "get with the program" and get the job done.

I don't think you would hear a sermon about this in Australia, but I have found it interesting to reflect on. Going to live in another culture can bring out some strengths. I feel we have done well with moving over, setting up the house, getting the kids organised, and Scott doing well in his studies. But moving overseas also shines a big bright light on our weaknesses, as individuals, and as a couple. When I am unable to achieve what I want, sometimes I get angry and try to blame other people (usually Scott), or circumstances. Other times I get down, and feel despair at myself. As you can imagine, neither is helpful.

So maybe the sermon and the book chapter are helpful for me. Being willing to admit my limitations without shame, learn how to live with them graciously, appreciate other people's strengths without begrudging, and trusting in God to carry us through. A hard lesson to learn.