Reasons I Sweep Our Building Every Morning

I can't tell you how much I prayed over our new office building when we were in the process of buying it. It was such a good experience because of that prayer, I know. And one of the things that God and I talked about during those prayers was upkeep and maintenance. It was so important to me that I never take the building for granted since it was a blessing from God.

Now, every morning when I get to work, I sweep the building inside and out. I've done it since day one, and I will do it every day I'm there. It may not seem like a huge deal, but it is for me. 

Why is sweeping so serious? I'm so glad you asked.

1. It gives me a few minutes at the start of the day to focus and think without interruption. There are no people, no dogs, no phones, no nothin'. I'm physically in the building, I can see what needs to be done, and I can process my thoughts in the quiet. My brain needs that, craves that.

2. It's creating a habit. Sweeping is just what I do now, first thing in the morning when I get to work. There are a lot of other things I could do, but I am purposely working on my self-discipline and will power, which will spill over into other parts of my life. 

3. I get to know our building. It was built in the late 1800s, and that blows my mind some days. I've seen the drops of paint on the floor from a dozen different projects over the years. I can tell where additions were made, walls were removed, and boards were replaced. And years down the road, I'll be able to tell what's changed in the time we've been in the building, too.

4. Maybe someone will see my habit and be inspired. Change starts with one person, and I'd love for my dedication to our building, our block, and our street to have an influence other people. People are always driving by and walking by while I'm sweeping, so hopefully my faithfulness will be an encouragement and motivation to one of them - for starters!

5. It connects me to the shop owners of this building for many generations. You know those old westerns where the hero comes riding into town and the shopkeeper is out front sweeping off the boardwalk? That's me now. That's how I picture myself, and it always makes me smile. Imagine how many people have swept my entryway over the past 125 years.

What's one habit in your own life that means something to you deeply? Have you ever thought about the real why's behind why you do it? Can it be something that influences and motivates someone else? I pray that it will be.

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