It’s hard to cry with your mouth full of cookie

  • Published
  • By Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Steve Torgerson
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Chaplains Office
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  It was a beautiful fall day in Texas. Church was over and we were on our way to Garner State Park. My wife packs great road trip lunches - each item delightfully delicious. Even so, pre-eminent for my kids and me is the finale. 

On this particular trip, it was Mint Milano cookies. My daughter, Sarah, was three. While eating her second cookie she discovered it would be her last. It was more than she could bear. She started crying - not just a whimper either, a full-blown wail. It surprised me. We were ending a great meal in tears. The absurdity really struck when I noticed the gape of her wailing mouth was full of cookie. Before her taste buds were drained of delectable morsels, she was sobbing. 

Crying with a mouth full of cookie isn't just for kids. Adults can be well situated and still live life like a burden. Future fear drains present fun. 

My first assignment I counseled basic trainees. Often, a trainee would come looking for a way out. The reason - they "hated basic training." When I would query, "What about basic training do you hate?" The answer would quickly come, "Everything." We would discuss marching, the food, their beds, classroom instruction, physical training, etc.

 Further dialogue revealed they didn't mind the majority of their day. Turned out there was only one thing they really hated, "When the training instructor yells at me." I confessed I hated being yelled at too. In fact, most people hate it. 

The problem is, like most burdens, it doesn't just bother you when it is happening. We let a few minutes of misery ruin the hours of our day. My suggestion was to be miserable when the T.I. was yelling, but when it's over get back to noticing the things you like. 

Sometimes we let frustration steal our joy. I've caught myself in line at the commissary agitated for the wait I have to "suffer." If my mind were better tuned, I'd realize I'm one of the privileged on earth that gets to load a basket with everything my family wants to eat.
Thanksgiving is time to reflect again on our blessings. Our Forefathers had plenty of reasons to worry about the coming winter, but they didn't let that stop them. They called together neighbors and friends to celebrate - celebrate the good things God had given them. 

Some joys are experienced only by those who know the art of thankful living. Those with the ability to understand we have been given much and, though our troubles are constant, most of our moments are pretty good. 

So when you're stuck in a long line this holiday season, open up the Mint Milanos and share them with those in line. Your connection with your blessings will bring a good measure of holiday cheer.