"You CAN always get what you want!"

     Out of all of the stories we have read so far, each story has shocked me in some way in that whether while I was reading the story or it was being discussed, something clicked or stood out to me immensely. Two of these pieces that stuck out to me the most were "Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry and "The Mural" by Pu Song-Ling. Although from different places, all characters endure a similar experience. In the "Gift of the Magi" as well as "The Mural," there's a great sense of desire and want that aligns with what young Chu in "The Mural" says about "Illusion starting in the mind." Indeed, Mrs Della Dillingham convinces herself that she must provide her husband with a gift that costs more than she can actually afford. She cuts off her most treasured possession, her hair, to provide what she considers to be a worthy gift for her own satisfaction but ultimately, to the satisfaction of her husband. The same goes for Chu who despite pursuing self-control daily, falls to lust and ultimately, what Christians would refer to as sexual immorality. In each situation, desire to please someone or one's self leads to actions that didn't end quite as desired. In "Gift of the Magi," both parties did experience an "Aha!" moment in their actions and learned from their actions while Chu seemed to gain no "enlightenment," just fear. So, what does all of this mean to me? It reminds me of how human nature's innate desire, that must be challenged and fought most often, is to satisfy one's self solely. We are creatures that want this and want that and in American society where media portrays and feeds these desires frequently, many Americans don't understand the problem or need to at times, fight out self-satisfying desires. The grass isn't always greener on the other side. I think it's best to always check one's motives and whether or not giving into our desires will be a refreshing event, a potential "Aha!" moment, or leave us ashamed and fearful hiding under our beds. 

     As a struggling single college student, I can jokingly reflect on my last high school relationship that lasted on and off somewhere between 8th grade and 10th grade when money was not easy to come by (but in actuality was) when Christmas was near and money was scarce. Although the current boyfriend and I at the time wanted to give each other something special for Christmas, we decided against it and did not attempt any "Gift of the Magi" type thing. He would eventually make up for the lack of gifts by spoiling me on Valentine's day. High school relationships are the best. What's better than high school relationships? Sesame Street. Enjoy!

http://youtu.be/o2VFgHGKzx4


     Reading back on this post, "The Gift of the Magi" stands out to me the post at this point in life. Why? Because I can't help but recall Elizabeth's presentation on this story and how heartfelt and sincere her excitement was to share her feelings on the peace. I believe the obsession with this piece may stem from the shameless and self-sacrificial love so evidently displayed between the young couple as they go out of their way to please one another. I recently attended a dear friend's wedding where many married people spoke up at the wedding and encouraged and warned the new Godly couple about the hardships to come and the importance in being submissive to one another and willing to serve, even when that's the last thing you desire to do. After working at Pine Cove, I've come to realize that the answer to most of life's questions can be found in service. When at Pine Cove, my mentality is completely service-minded and in those moments, I am most content with life because I'm not spending time thinking about myself and therefore, allowing myself the time to brainstorm more and more things that would make me temporarily happy. If I could live life in that kind of mindset more often, a mindset where I am passionately enthralled with serving others and pleasing my Lord Jesus Christ, it would be much easier for me to find peace in everyday life.