When the word reminder is  split into 3 parts it will look like re-mind-er

In other words , it is something which I have in mind, to remember and do. How will you respond to a reminder. Does it make you happy?

I can share some of my own experiences specially when it comes to being given reminders from my better half. It irritates me sometimes. Why? Well, I know that this involves something which needs to be done somehow, and immediately, or it may refer to events , meetings, or oft times forgotten moments.

I reflect on the reasons why I dislike reminders..Is it because I think I know it all, and do not need reminders. Or does  it pressurizes me , when I have a busy schedule.

There are times when reminders  come even through  scripture.

Today I read from 1 Peter 5: 1-10  which speaks about how a leader of people should be like a shepherd of a flock entrusted to him  ‘not simply as a duty but gladly, because God wants it. . This reminder brought me back to the time when I was installed as a Coordinator of a Community , and it was clear that this leadership meant to ‘ never be a dictator over any group that is put in your charge, but be an example that the whole flock can follow.” (1Peter5:3)  Today this reminder can be so helpful to leaders in all walks of life.

Soon after this I read in the following verses of the same chapter ‘Be calm but vigilant, because your enemy the devil is prowling round like a roaring lion, looking for someone to eat, Stand up to him, strong in faith and in the knowledge that your brothers all over the world are suffering the same things.’ ( 1Peter 5: 8,9)  This reminded me of the time I was on tour with my wife and she was robbed of her bag, which contained cash and her passport. It was quite disturbing , and we felt stranded in a foreign country without any help. At that time , my daughter, spoke to me on the phone and told us to read this particular verse from the bible. It gave us such consolation and strength, and we were then prepared for the challenge ahead.

So reminders can be God sent messages to help us in life, to keep us on track.

In the corporate world, what would happen if the secretary to the boss, did not remind him of his flight date and timing for important meetings. Reminders will also help him to prepare for important discussions ahead.

In life’s road , reminders serve to guide us on the path to an eternal destination. These will come in many ways. Are we listening? Or will it be like the Tin man in the  ‘Wizard of Oz’; he certainly does not know his way, and causes others to lose their way too. Reminders are like the compass or Lighthouse, which guides ships out at sea or near the coast.

When I am alert, and heed these reminders, I can be sure,that

‘I am on the right path’………..So let us all welcome ‘reminders’ with a smile.