Test

Isn't that a crappy word? Test. It doesn't matter what area of life it shows up, it usually carries with it a negative vibe. From Elementary through college the word test can create unease no matter how old you are. When you go to the doctor or hospital as soon as the doctor says "test" the patient probably suffers hearing loss as they try to process what that might mean. Then there is just life, all the time we have different "tests" we pass, fail, or come up against. Tests of character, endurance, finances, emotional issues, relationships and a million others invade our lives all the time.  I do think we can change this word into something more positive though. For an example, my Speech/Communications professor calls our tests "Celebrations of Knowledge." Doesn't that just make you want to participate??

There is one thing that can ease our way through tests and that is preparing! For those of us that take actual exams, we study until we can't imagine we can learn any more, and then we study some more. It is such a confidence booster to know that anyone can ask you anything about a given topic and you can speak to it and give answers.

Life issues are a little harder to prepare for, but not impossible. We prepare by heading wisdom of those who walk before us. We prepare by reading our Bibles and praying and walking out our faith everyday so when  test comes we are armed and ready. We prepare by keeping perspective in small things and finding ways to be grateful even when things aggravate us, so when major stuff comes down our habit is gratitude.

I'm not sure there is a way to prepare for medical issues as those tend to sneak up on us. It is in those moments, when we can't find our way or we don't know the answers, that we rely on those who love us. One of my favorite little sayings about a friend is...you sing when I have forgotten the words...That is what friends and family are for...to carry us through when we can't do it ourselves.

As I prepare for tests at school and in life, I hope that I can prepare in such a way that inspires those around me to do the same. That my children will learn that even hard school work (that you might never use) should still have your best effort and you should strive for excellence. But more importantly, I hope that I can prepare them for life and the challenges that they face by own example....