Goldilocks' Dilema

Though I am always in a haste, I am never in a hurry, because I never undertake more work than I can go through with perfect calmness of spirit. - John Wesley

Goldilocks stumbled into the home of the Three Bears and experimented with porridge that was too hot, too cold, and just right. Next, she encountered chairs that were too hard, soft, or just right. Eventually she tested three beds before finding her perfect match.

Striking the balance between too much or too little of anything is challenging. For me it is chocolate cake with ice cream! For others it is exercise, shopping, or screen time. We all struggle for balance in some area of our lives.

Solomon wrestled with his work-life balance. He accomplished a massive amount; he built a temple, palace, army, treasury, empire and so much more. But achievement came at a price. Reflecting on three options of 1) too little work, 2) a balanced approach, or 3) doing too much, Solomon said,

“The fool folds his hands and ruins himself (too little).

Better one handful with tranquility (just right) than

Two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind (too much).” (Ecclesiastes 4:5-6)

Strive for balance. Don’t fold your hands and do nothing. But don’t throw everything (both hands) into chasing insignificant, ephemeral goals. Work sensibly; grasp your commitments and responsibilities with one hand and tranquility and contentment with the other.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc