I read a great story recently. I don’t know the original author but I’d like to share the story with you now.
It goes like this:
I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a really rough first day on the job, his truck refused to start. As I drove him home, he sat in silence.
When we got to his house, he invited me in to meet his family.
By the front door, he paused for a moment at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands.
As we walked in, it was like he had been transformed – full of smiles and hugs for his wife and 2 small kids!
Later, as he walked me to the car, I asked him about what I had seen him do at the little tree. “Oh, that’s my Trouble Tree,” he replied. “I know I can’t help having troubles on the job, but one thing’s for sure, those troubles don’t belong in the house with my family.
So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them. Then in the morning I pick them up again.”
Then he smiled and said “Funny thing is, when I come out in the morning to pick them up, there aren’t nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before.”
Action – As you walk toward your front door tonight, create your own “Trouble Tree” ritual, maybe using an actual tree or even just the door handle itself.
Leave your work-related troubles far away from the safety, comfort and joy of home (even if you live alone).
(What is your Trouble Tree? Is it the door handle, an actual tree or maybe even the hood of the car as you park it for the night. Share your thoughts in the comment box.)