Valued Interruptions

The other day Paul, our son-in-law, said he didn’t want to interrupt me while I was reading my Bible. He’s considerate that way. But, come to think of it, my life has been full of interruptions, mostly good, some not so.

Every young mother can relate to interruptions by their children. It’s usually while doing some important task (even in the bathroom) or talking on the phone. But children are insistent and want attention “now.” More often than I’d like to admit, my attitude about being interrupted has not been agreeable. Then comes along that unexpected time when a child wants to share her find while playing outside. My window sill in one house displayed a collection of rocks, cones, and seeds. These love gifts from my children started with an interruption.

When I worked as client services director for the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Terre Haute and Brazil, IN, I observed an open door policy. That stimulated interruptions from volunteer counselors needing advice or wanting to share their recent encounter with clients. Most were work-related, but sometimes those interruptions opened up their personal lives. Both of us benefited.

Now the interruptions come from great-grandkids when we have the pleasure of their company. Our granddaughter Anna is committed to bringing the triplets for a visit, at least once a year from Nashville, TN. They want to help, especially in the kitchen. I can do the fixings alone, but to them it’s part of their play. I’m blessed with their interruptions.

Levi works alongside motel laborer.

More presently the interruptions come from Bill who likes meals on time. I’ll be typing away on a document or email and Bill stands by the clock and points. It’s noon. It’s six o’clock. When are we going to eat? I want to choose the schedule, but he’s as insistent as our children had been. So I put him off for a few minutes and then head to the kitchen where he stands and observes every move, often taking a utensil off the counter before I’m finished with it. He only wants to help.

So whether it’s from a child, worker, or husband, interruptions can lead to a good relationship – if my attitude remains open and compassionate. Bring on the interruptions.