I started a Bible Study in January called "Cultivating Contentment" with two of my friends. It's a good study but because of conflicting schedules and circumstances we haven't been able to meet on a weekly basis. I put the study aside and tended to other pressing fires.

During that "down" time I was busy, at times even frantic, but not content. I was doing well. I made resolutions, changed my eating pattern, became more active and looked like I was making progress.

Then came the "crash and burn" syndrome which seems to be part of my charming personality. Everything became hard, there was only push, push and push some more. My surplus was quickly depleted and in no time I was defeated. It would be a sad story if it ended there......But misery loves company so I made sure that I complained loud and long to everyone I knew.

The more I complained the worse I felt and surprise, so did everyone around me! Imagine how intrigued I was when I blew off the dust on my Bible Study and found the lesson to be on complaining. I found this little gem from Nicole Johnson...."There is no life without pain. No treasure without the hunt....."

So what's the alternative? Do I become "Pollyanna" and play the "Glad Game?" As with anything in life, contentment requires learning to balance. I have learned that complaining doesn't serve any good purpose. When I vent my frustrations to those around me it only sours their attitudes. It breeds the urge to complain in others and is a thoughtless habit.

Scripture states it very simply, "In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing.( Philippians 2:14)"

So as a reminder ( suggested in the study) I'm putting buttons in my change purse and other places where I can see them to remind me to "button my lip" whenever the urge to complain hits. So I guess the old southern statement of , "Well, shut my mouth!" is pretty accurate!"