I am in the midst of that peculiar period during the first year of law school when students compose and dispatch numerous formulaic requests for consideration, nervously trying to find the right balance between obsequious begging and arrogant bragging that will net them the perfect summer position. With internships on my mind, and a yearning for a deeper, more informed friendship with Jesus in my heart, I came across this inspiring* little quote:
"Upon the right improvement of our time depends our success in acquiring knowledge and mental culture. The cultivation of the intellect need not be prevented by poverty, humble origin, or unfavorable surroundings. Only let the moments be treasured.A few moments here and a few there, that might be frittered away in aimless talk; the morning hours so often wasted in bed; the time spent in traveling on the trams or railway cars, or waiting at the station; the moments of waiting for meals, waiting for those who are tardy in keeping an appointment—if a book were kept at hand, and these fragments of time were improved in study, reading, or careful thought, what might not be accomplished. A resolute purpose, persistent industry, and careful economy of time will enable men to acquire knowledge and mental discipline which will qualify them for almost any position of influence and usefulness." Christ's Object Lessons, 344
What a neat, practical way to gain fitness for positions of influence and usefulness! This is a lesson I want to take to heart. Here are my ideas:
- listening to scripture songs on my way to school,
- reading snatches of StC during study breaks instead of flipping over to Google news,
- listening to GYC seminars while running
What ideas do you have?
Excelsior
*I wish there was a word that described this feeling better--not just inspiring, but also convicting. "Conspiring" doesn't seem to be quite what I'm looking for; maybe "invicting"?
Great quote. I remember being convicted when I read that a few months ago.
ReplyDeleteOne could also say little prayers while waiting for classes to start or, in my case, while on hold with an insurance company . . .
I like "invicting." It sounds like . . . a strong invitation for change. :)
I sincerely believe that writing thank-you's and notes of encouragement for others is time well spent. Letting out a little secret here... :) I like to keep stationary in my car and in my backpack/computer bag. Fostering gratitude is good for the soul, and does wonders for the recipient as well. It is also a great way to keep you looking for gems in what you are reading, that way you can share it with others. Maybe it is easier for a girl to do something like this, but I think it is time well spent. Btw, thanks for sharing that quote.
ReplyDelete"Only let the moments be treasured."
ReplyDeleteThis is the secret. This art of treasuring each moment as a gift from Him - a forever learning.
Sharing of God's blessings with friends is always a joy! I have found listening to sermons while I cook or do dishes is good use of time. Also reviewing memorized passages out loud when I'm driving is helpful too, And I like to pray for strangers that I see too :)
Thanks for the card idea Emily! I'm going to put some in my car soon :)
Thanks for the ideas! I really like the thank-you note idea too, Emily :)
ReplyDeleteThose are grand ideas! I have been listening to Early Writings by EGW on my way to work in the mornings, and I have another one of her books on my phone that is dedicated to reading when I have a few minutes here and there. I started it a few weeks ago and am already on chapter 7 even though I have no specific time dedicated to it, and when I run I like to work on memorizing verses.
ReplyDeleteLol, I just realized while reading this that I was listening to a GYC sermon while running this morning. I love all of these great ideas from everyone.
ReplyDeleteAlways keep a good book in the bathroom!
ReplyDelete