“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (Jas 1:5)

Those of you who read my blog know I’m a self-proclaimed overachiever who likes to stay busy and who has a hard time saying no. I volunteer for a variety of organizations in my spare time. I’m president of my state’s writing organization, Oklahoma Writers’ Federation, Inc. (OWFI), I serve on the board for a senior nutrition site, I volunteer at church, and I organize a monthly celebratory meeting for the women in my small group. While I love being involved in each of these things for different reasons, I sometimes become overwhelmed when activities for each coincide. In this season of life, I’m often faced with two (or more) good choices, and I’m learning to choose the best one when presented with scheduling options.

Recognizing that I needed to make smarter decisions about scheduling came when health problems threatened to derail my activities, including work, last year. I previously wrote about choosing my health as my primary goal for 2019 in this blog. (You can read that post here.) One of the ways I’m making my health a priority is by paying attention to my schedule to ensure adequate time to rest.

I recently read The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst, in which she provided excellent guidance on learning to choose between two good options. In this season, I’m choosing to focus on the following for my best yes:

1. My parents. One of my priorities has always been spending time with my parents, and it’s no less a priority now that I’m older. Unlike jobs I’ve had in the past, my job travels with me. When something comes up during the middle of the week, I simply pack up and take everything with me. I want to make the most of every moment I have with them. That means spending time with them and actually being present when I’m there. In between trips, we stay in touch by phone or text.
2. OWFI. In this season as first the conference chair and now president, I have opportunities I’ll never have again to interact with other writers. The sheer volume of contacts is something that I’ll never find any other position (except, perhaps, a national one). I’m working to build relationships that will last beyond my term as president – again, by being present. Offering support to board members when they need it, scouring the city for giveaway prizes, and carving out time to meet up and write has led deepening friendships that will last well beyond my term as president.
3. Friendships. Another best yes is pouring myself into developing closer friendships with those in my life. In my small group, we’ve developed a real community where we count on each other and support each other and walk through life with each other. I’m surrounded by strong Christian women both in my small group and outside it. Because of this, I know that my relationship with Jesus will continue to grow.

I’m new to learning to choose the best yes, and I’m still figuring it all out. What I’m learning is that I have to make time. And that may mean saying no to some good things so that I can focus on the best things for me right now. I’m thankful for God’s presence as he guides me to the best decision, providing more opportunities each day.

Dear Jesus, thank you for the opportunities to spend time with others and share your love. Thank you that I have the choice between a good yes and a best yes. Help me to choose wisely. Amen.