Another Lesson In Questions

This is a list of questions that was used in a sermon but I am taking from a book. It did not originate with me, but this list was used to help people evaluate things about their spirituality. The person who made this list hoped that (actually in the sermon he supplied it and orchestrated it) people would actually take the time to write down the answers to these questions, not just think about them.


What is frustrating me right now?
I have been frustrated recently with people putting me in a box. That people only think I am worth the sum of my gifts. That my ability to communicate or explain things I have studied is all the worth I have. I'm frustrated, because I'm greatly honored and excited for the moments I get to use those gifts (please don't stop asking me questions) but that many people now only use me as a resource for those things.
What am I angry about?
I'm angry about people who represent my God and Savior by name, but don't accurately portray His character. I realize we all give flawed images of God, but some who teach things contrary to the heart of God and contrary to His Word makes me angry. I'm angry that they turn so many people off to the best thing out there for them.
What am I scared of?
I'm scared that someday I will actually have to deal with the things I feel I've been prepared to deal with. I'm scared that the resources I've relied upon in the past won't always prove successful. I'm scared that I won't become who I need to become.
What am I dreading?
I'm dreading the time where prostate exams become a normal part of life. I'm dreading the time where I have to relate with people only because death has happened and we are at the same funeral. I'm dreading the time when I actually have to present my cherished book manuscript (it isn't written yet) to an editor to get it thrashed over and changed.
What am I anxious about?
I have lots of anxiety about doing internships for Seminary.
What concerns me?
I'm concerned by injustice. There is so much of it, it is hard to know what role I can play. I've shared that Jenny and I are looking for a cause to support. It is so hard to narrow it down. I'm concerned that I'll sit by for to long before engaging in work that supports justice across this world, whatever that looks like.
What is stressing me right now, the smallest thing that I don't want to write down because it seems so dumb but it actually is stressing me?
The smallest, little, insignificant thing that is stressing me out right now, that seems silly to write down is an issue of understanding. I keep getting addressed awkwardly because I did not help Jenny paint the kitchen. I'm stressed that the implication I get from people's comments is that I'm not being a good husband. Jenny has, and might again respond that I helped in all the areas she wanted help.
What am I looking forward to?
My brother's wedding. He's great at making life about other people a lot of the time. He is willing to throw himself under the bus, or to go out of his way to appease other people. He'll make a great husband.
Today, tomorrow, this year?
Today, I'm looking forward to playing Tetris and listening to sermons to wind down my night (I'm such a nerd). Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to my small group meeting, it's one of the times of the week I feel most "healthy" even when things in life aren't real good. This year, I'm looking forward to my wife's smile. She does the best things. She is the best. I'm looking forward to this year with her, no matter what it brings in the rest of life, the journey with her is of far greater importance, and her presence will again make this year better than it would have ever been without her.