A Few Things, and Then to Bed

I've been thinking a lot lately about the idea that consistent, sustained effort is better than flash-in-the-pan moments of greatness. I mentioned this idea to my parents tonight asking if there was a quote or something that I was thinking of but just couldn't remember that described this idea and my mom sent me this -

If a man has any greatness in him, it comes to light, not in one flamboyant hour, but in the ledger of his daily work.

~ Beryl Markham ~

That's definitely the idea I've been thinking of, but not the quote or the source I was necessarily thinking of. If I come up with that, I'll let you know, but until then, I think that quote fits very nicely.

I've been thinking of this idea with my plans (hopes) for weight loss. I realized it doesn't matter how many days I can keep to extreme (healthy) eating habits if I break down and shove every unhealthy thing I can into my mouth. Which happens.

If, on the other hand, I'm consistently eating what's good for me and allowing myself an occasional treat and not beating myself up about it, I'm doing all right. Better than all right, I'm doing what will lead to permanent weight loss. Which is awesome.

I've been thinking about this idea more today because I had a fireside this evening that focused on a Book of Mormon reading challenge. They handed out a schedule that shows you what you need to read in order to be done by Christmas (starting 1 September). I think it's mostly 4-5 pages a day. Easily doable. When I first looked at it I thought, 'I can get a huge jump start on that.' Then I realized that, once again, it's not about these bursts of enthusiasm, but consistent, daily effort. Since I haven't been reading the BoM with any regularity lately it'll be best for me to start with consistent, simple efforts.

I think doing these two things - in this way - show a 'ledger of daily work' that will lead to positive (and lasting) things.

ps - in the fireside, the speaker - Elder Warren G. Tate - asked us to invite family members, friends, co-workers, etc. to participate in this challenge with us, promising that doing it will bring us closer to our Heavenly Father, and bring us answers to questions we've had. So, if you're reading this, consider this my invitation. Member of the Church, or not, I invite you all to read the Book of Mormon.

One thing Elder Tate mentioned was having a personal daily devotional. I like that idea, and have never really done that. I think that sounds like a great break from the daily grind and a wonderful way to either start or finish (or both?) the day.

And now... because it's almost midnight... I'm to bed.