“They are not poor that have little, but they that desire much. The richest man, whatever his lot, is the one who’s content with his lot.”
—Dutch proverb
This morning we were in Holland, Michigan. We spent a couple of hours at Windmill Island Garden, where the tulips were in full bloom.
We toured De Zwaan windmill and learned not only about the history and mechanics of these amazing machines that date back to the twelfth century, but also about the ways in which windmills were the center of life for the communities in which they were located. Not only were windmills used to grind grain, pump water, and saw wood, they were also a primary means of communication. Events in the community could be announced by the position of the blades or by decorations placed on the blades. Trade that was fostered by the presence of the windmill built up the economy of the area and contributed to a healthy sense of community.
A quote from the short film about the windmill has been stirring in my heart all day. “With advances in technology we have a higher standard of living, but often a lower quality of life.” I’ve been pondering how this is so in my own life. One observation I’ve made is that, because so much is possible, I have a tendency to expect more than is realistic. If I am not careful, this tendency can quickly turn into discontent and grumbling.
John and I were discussing lessons learned on our trip while we were driving today. A big lesson for me has to do with the limitations that we all have. There is no person on earth for whom all things are possible. No one can see everything there is to see. No one gets more than 24 hours in a day. No one can be in more than one place at any one time. And, as my brother often says, “Just because something is possible, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea.” If we focus on what we cannot have or do or be, we will be perpetually unhappy. However…
Within the bounds of our limitations, there are great treasures to be uncovered. The beautiful Friesian horses we saw in Holland were limited by the fence around their paddock. But within the fence they galloped and pranced, the wind blowing through their manes.
The tulips need very specific temperature and light conditions to bloom, so can only bloom for a few brief weeks. But in that short time, oh, how they bloom!
Today was a lesson for me in enjoying where I am, wherever that may be. It was a lesson in celebrating all the delightful experiences to be had within my limitations. It was a lesson in being content, exuberantly content, with my lot, and giving thanks.
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
—Philippians 4:12-13
