Perfection is not the Goal

The project has been completed.  Hallelujah!  My original estimate for it was between three to six months but it took almost two years.  There were moments I wondered if I'd ever complete it and to be truthful, I'd really like to start it over.  It's not up to my former standards and I want to make it 'perfect'.

But perfection kills and I need to learn to let things go.  Not just in art, but in life.  I could bring myself to a nervous breakdown trying to do things perfectly for Mom and Dad.  It just can't be done.  When I was caring for my own mother, I had to accept that I could not make her situation perfect.  I just had to do my best and keep moving forward.

Years ago, I read a book by Larry Crabb.  I don't remember the title, nor do I remember anything about the book, but I do remember one thing.  A quote that has stayed with me.  It was a question, actually.  In relating to our spiritual lives the question is, “Do you want to be a mystic or a manager?” You could try to have a nice, orderly, managed spiritual walk with everything in its proper place, striving for perfection.  Or you could have a wild, reckless roller-coaster ride with Jesus through life - not knowing what is coming next.

There is a small part of me that would love to have an organized, 'perfect' life. The bigger part of my heart wants to run hard after God, find the mystery He has for us to explore, and the power He has to change me into something extraordinary.

I let go of perfection.  The project has come to an end.  We'll see where the ride takes me next.