Sharing Household Tips

“The aged women likewise… that they may teach the young women…”
Titus 2:3a-4a

Household tips are useful resources. Sharing tried and tested tips is a gift. Teaching someone what works and doesn’t work is extremely helpful in saving time, energy, money, relationships and preventing unnecessary headaches. God formulated a plan for sharing helpful insights, ideas and instruction long before Google was invented and it involves a personal interaction that online services lack. Unfortunately, this instruction, for older women to teach younger women, is often neglected or taken for granted. As a result, we miss out on opportunities to cultivate these relationships and resources.

I’m thankful for the women in my life who have taught me how to prioritize my home. They’ve shown me how to love and care for my family. They offer support and advice. They motivate and inspire me to grow and open my eyes to new perspectives and possibilities.

Years ago, a dear friend gave me daffodil bulbs and taught me how to plant them. Now in February, as winter becomes depressingly gray, the daffodils bloom with the camellias in bright contrast as if to say, “Cheer up! Spring is just around the corner!” Though my friend is gone, her gift continues to bloom and brighten my home each year.

Other friends have taught me to:

• Care for my family BEFORE caring for others.
• Make the bed every morning.
• Tidy the kitchen and living room every evening.
• Tackle housework a little each day.
• Use “Barkeepers Friend” to shine copper bottom pots and other things.
• Practice food prep habits to eat better with less hassle.
• Avoid letting laundry sit in the dryer to wrinkle.

I laughed when another elderly lady told me what to say to someone who drops by unannounced and the house is a mess:

“If you drop by and there are dishes in my sink,
just remember I didn’t invite you.”
Ms. McCreary, TN

We won’t be ready for everyone at every moment. Some days, our houses will be turned upside down. She taught me to not be put out by surprise guests but to be put together for invited guests.

Learn From Older Women         

Most everyone is younger than someone and needs the expertise and experience of those who are older. We don’t have to carry the burdens of home alone. We can reach out to others for help when we’re stuck, swamped or sinking. There’s no need to live under stress. We all need help at some point but people can’t help if they don’t know the needs. We must seek help. Speak up. Then, listen and learn.

Teach Younger Women         

Most everyone is older than someone and needs to share their expertise and experience with those who are younger.  We can’t keep what we learn to ourselves. The next generation needs help too. We all benefit from others’ spiritual strength, sympathy, skills and solutions.  Nothing encourages and inspires others like knowing others care. Let’s step up and share.

Accept Your Role

“If you’re older than someone, you’re a teacher.
If you’re younger than someone, you’re a student.”
BRC

We all have roles to play and we can’t take them lightly. We may feel like we have nothing to share but others are watching our patterns. It’s up to us whether we help others and share good or bad examples.

“In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works…” Titus 2:7a

Bring It Home

In a brief sentence, share one household tip that someone shared with you.

Praying for you as we grow together,

Smiles, BRC