Holidays
No matter how nice my in-laws are, they are still my in-laws and not my family. I have a permanent picture in my mind of the daughter-in-law I want to be - gracious and loving and giving in a way that isn't giving at all because the joys are shared - but I'm afraid the reality is a bit less romantic and contains scattered moments of irritation, irritation often irrationally founded on preferences established by living a lifestyle that permits semi-self-indulgence. But isn't knowing half the battle? I do try my best to be gracious, I do. And I estimate that at least 70% of the time I succeed. I also know I'm blessed with this particular family and I know that they are genuinely good people. So I try not to complain, but sometimes I still do. Isn't that human nature? Maybe I need to resume yoga. Maybe I need to pray more, eat less, run. Maybe. For now I'll sit back and admire my sister-in-law's ability to draw her parents into conversation with sincerity and interest. She's a remarkable inspiration.
