In general, I hate shopping. Years ago I discovered some jeans which fit perfectly. So I have continued buying that specific pair over and over. I was set for life – or so I thought. But the past year something changed. Apparently, I am experiencing that “slower metabolism midlife growth spurt” thing. For a considerable time the jeans have become increasingly uncomfortable. This summer my jeans shorts also protested against being stretched to the max.

My response? Denial.

Why is it so hard to accept reality at times?

Why is it so hard to simply buy the next size up in clothing?

Related unrelated – the July 28 expiration date on the milk I purchased this week angered me. As I continued my grocery shopping, I pondered why. I knew it was the date of the pedestrian accident 27 years before, but why was I so bothered this year? Often the date slips up on me, but this year it is hitting me extra hard and days ahead of time. Frustrating. Then it dawned on me. I did not want what happened to me on July 28, 1998 to be in my life story. I did not want that pedestrian to walk in front of my car and forever change my life when I was 18. I did not ask for that. I did not want that. I cannot delete that. I cannot eliminate the constant negative impact. I do not like what happened to me, and there is absolutely nothing I can do about it all. What is is. And now in the present, more life events are happening to me out of my control. Things way more significant than growing waistlines. July 28 on the milk carton screams at me that I am not God and that I am not in control. The once comfortable jeans and jean shorts remind me that I cannot change what is. Buying the next size up represents accepting that reality. And I do not want to accept it. I want to be able to change what I want to change. I do not want to accept what is.

God has been patiently working with me through caring counselors to accept that I cannot change certain things in my life. We have not even discussed my waistline, but through the process, I realized I needed to accept reality in this small sphere as well. I bought the next size up. I feel humbled but also way more comfortable. Go figure! The better fitting clothing is a tangible reminder that accepting reality is the best choice.

Much of life is outside our control, but accepting reality is one part within our control. What do you need to accept today? What trusted person can help you do just that?