As I’ve been writing a manual about our household—in printed and digital formats—I’ve also realized the benefits of this effort. Perhaps you could find similar blessings writing your own descriptions and instructions.
While engaged in details-sleuthing and writing, I’ve realized that I can at the same time organize household files, simplify processes, discard unused items and remember what this household has meant all these years.
This project has been deeply satisfying—and even relaxing. As I describe the contents and processes of running this household, I’m also detailing the legacy that this home holds—the history that will be passed on. That feels like a sacred task—a joy to be shared down through generations.
Some examples of other benefits:
- I am thankful for the vendors and tradespeople who have been our partners in maintaining this property.
- Because the contents of this household span our marriage, they also contain a poignant record of Chris and my life together. Wonderful memories!
- I realize how richly we have been blessed, in so many ways.
Each description, legal document, brochure, artifact, piece of correspondence or descriptive paragraph also holds a story about needs, hopes or joys. Those parts of our life accumulate in this manual as a kind of psalm of praise to God for making all this possible.
I’ve enjoyed the research, discovery and writing. Imagining others’ future needs is at the heart of the project. But more than that, this manual is a work of love. Pure and simple, those who follow me will know that I have loved them enough to put these details together in one place.
If you undertake a similar project in your own household, I think you, too, will realize how your life is full of blessings!
Gifts you’ll pass on with grace….
