I Ain’t Got No Style
written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways.”
Jill and I were taking some time together and just watching television shows together. At least four times a different character proclaimed, “That isn’t my style.” Finally, I turned to Jill and said, “What’s the deal with me, I’ve never had my own style! How do I get a style?” So, I do what I always do, I turn to others for assistance. This time, I am turning to Tim Denning and his article “The Purpose of Your Life Is to Choose a Lifestyle.”
According to Denning, “The purpose of your life is to consciously choose a lifestyle that works for you.” Ok, so I don’t have a style, but I apparently I need a lifestyle. Then I realized, while Goth and Punk may not be my lifestyle, I am a married person with grandchildren. I am a Presbyterian Christian, who loves living in Des Moines, Iowa. My wife and I love animals and spend too much money on deer corn each year. Hey, maybe I do have a little bit of a lifestyle.
Tim Denning states it clearly, “The purpose of your life is to consciously choose a lifestyle that works for you.” The motivation for a lifestyle is not to look like Lady GaGa or be as hip as Pit Bull, but to focus on your truth. Your lifestyle should include your beliefs; the work you choose; hobbies; who you spend time with; your family life; and how you balance work and recreation.
Today, prayerfully consider your lifestyle. The reason this is important is that when you have a challenge or potential opportunity, the understanding of your lifestyle will help guide your decision-making. Knowing, for example, that faith is at the center of your lifestyle helps one focus on what is important. While you and I may not have style like Harry Styles, you and I can still still have a lifestyle which makes us happy and fulfilled. Once we know who we are, we are better able to care for others and honor God.
