Which Little Things Matter Most?
Focusing on the proper aspect is a much better view

“Ask yourself the question, ‘Will this matter a year from now?’ ”
— Richard Carlson
The little things in life that really matter are all around us just waiting to be noticed. Why do we get so wrapped up in those things that don’t matter? Our state of mind, along with our attitude, has everything to do with this behavior.
When I was sick with breast cancer, the important things, whether being little or big in life, became crystal clear.
My surgery left me in chronic pain. My left arm still doesn’t have its entire range, and I struggle with neuropathy in my feet and hands. I’m in pain, but some days are better than others which leaves me grateful.
“With determination, it is possible to block out the negative things and enjoy the positive ones, despite the cons. Most importantly, it is possible to dance through everything pernicious.”
– Sarah Todd Hammer
I am very thankful that I’m feeling much better. During chemotherapy, daily tasks were a real struggle. Just sitting up in a chair became a chore.
Honestly, even writing that seems a bit crazy to me, but I share with the hopes to make you stop to notice the beauty in the small stuff. You really deserve a break from the hustle and bustle of life.
Our experiences in life shape who we are. How you view them molds your very character. Do you take it for granted that you have the energy to do those everyday functions or enjoy your hobbies? Are you rushing to get ahead in life, but never stop to see the small things all around you?
Life is full of small blessings along the way. When is the last time you used all of your senses in a day to truly experience all that life has to offer you?
Some people are not able to use all of their senses. These people are truly those heroes among us. They could indeed teach us a few things about life. What if you genuinely embraced your abilities to touch, see, taste, smell, hear, move, work, rest, laugh, and even endure life’s challenges?
Not focusing on the right little things in life will squeeze out any amount of joy and peace. Do you allow those pet peeves to squeeze out the most beautiful things in your day? These are those little things that just don’t matter to me anymore.
However, here is one pet peeve that is still a struggle for me. Having dirty dishes in the sink bothers me. The thought of any leftover food crusting on them in my mind just creates more work in the end.
You might be asking, how does that get in the way? Would I miss a walk after dinner to see a sunset just to get the dishes done? I’m sad to answer, but honestly, perhaps I would.
We all have our pet peeves, but are they getting in the way of those amazing moments in life? Perhaps it’s time to let go of some of yours to allow space for you to be creative.
Letting go of pet peeves
Who doesn’t hate that slow driver in the left lane? On the flip side, who doesn’t hate that driver who is a blur as they go speeding past?
Life is a balancing act with those unending give and take opportunities.
Honestly, the person who is missing the beautiful mountains on either side of the road is perhaps the one who is too wrapped up in other persons driving abilities.
How about the gum smackers, those loud meal chewers, the voices shouting into their cell phones, those movie talkers, the apologies that aren’t, the soap that goes unused in a public bathroom, those unnecessary recommendations, repeated chronic lateness, or those last-minute line cutters?
It’s fair to say that some of these sound silly. However, if you let these things rub you wrong, they can set the tone for more aggravation instead of good.
Some of these are just judging others, which are the ones that really must be kept in check.
How might you decide which ones you would like to let go — to make room for those little blessings?
Noticing all the little blessings
Nothing feels better after a long day of doing whatever; than crawling into bed with those nice clean sheets.
When was the last time you embraced them — to smell or touch them? With Covid-19 robbing, some people of their taste, smell, and even their lives have you perhaps been taking for granted your taste and smell? Maybe even bigger yet, your life!
Does a lovely sunny day have any chance of catching your attention? That feeling on your face as you slow down while sipping your coffee or tea — it’s like a little hug.
I challenge you to wake up fifteen minutes earlier on the next sunny day to create time to allow this to happen for you.
When was the last time you baked an old family recipe, which is a creative outlet? This one will require you to use a wide range of your senses, what a true blessing. It’s almost like you are visiting a different dimension in time. Perhaps it takes you back to your childhood, filling a void that you have been missing.
How can embracing the small things change the direction of your life? Maybe, it will allow some peace where there has been too much worry.
Restoration in the big stuff
None of us know when we will take our last breath here on earth. I hope that you will create more moments of joy along your path.
After thinking about those beautiful little things in life, now comes the big stuff.
These are a little harder to work through. What does restoration in the big things mean to you? Perhaps it’s returning something to its former condition.
Do you find yourself worrying constantly? Perhaps your health has been declining. Or your finances seem to be dwindling. Are you worried about the future?
These are some big things — but all the worrying in the world cannot change them. Only taking the proper actions can help. Whatever you choose to focus on can either improve or decline based on the choices you make.
However, there are just some things in life that we cannot change. Therefore, our reaction is one hundred percent our responsibility.
Doing one thing positive in the area where you find yourself most worried can restore things, little by little.
- Let’s say it’s your health — then pray for healing.
- Let’s say it’s your finances — then pray for provision.
- Let’s say it’s your future — then pray for a hedge of protection.
Prayer cannot be a cop-out. You must still do your part.
- You can’t pray for healing and then go smoke ten packs of cigarettes.
- You can’t pray for your finances and go on a shopping spree.
- You can’t pray for your future and then miss out on the here and Now.
So how will you choose to live differently today? Managing those irritations might be a great start.
Conclusion
Is your anxiety making you irritable? Are you becoming picky towards those around you? Have you been overreacting lately? Are you missing out on the little things that matter most?
Perhaps you are stressed, but how then might you address the real issues behind your own behaviors?
Could your aggravation be a warning sign? Is Now the time to slow down? Could it be your anxiety is crying out for help? Please listen! Might you journal or embrace a new hobby?

I’m writing this as a thank you note for my breast cancer. I am cancer-free, but not only that; cancer has taught me to be even more thankful for the little things along the way.
It’s taught me to slow down while visiting my creative side. Writing and watercolor painting are my outlets; they bring me pure joy. What are yours? Anything creative is healing!
I’m also thankful for Trista Signe Ainsworth for her publication, Thank You Notes. It has become a home for my healing and a place I cherish with you. Enjoy the little things!
