By HAROLD KELLER

With 15 grandchildren, Jeanne and I experience many different personalities. In face, all 15 are completely different.

Elise, age 10, is known for being a whiner. Last week, her family planned a trip to Gulf Shores. Jeanne and I were invited, but only Jeanne decided to go. Everyone was excited about the trip, including Elise, that is until the trip began.

As they were backing out of the driveway, she started whining about having to sit in the back seat. She complained about everything, especially all the luggage that surrounded her. “How long is this trip?” she asked. “Why don’t you go to sleep?” her mother suggested, almost as a threat. Elise seemed to accept that advice for all of three minutes. Then she began: “I can’t sleep!” “I’m uncomfortable!” “I can’t get in a good position.” “How much longer is it?”

“Elise, cool it!” her dad said. “I’ve had enough! Just keep quiet and try to enjoy the trip and, hopefully, we will,” he continued. But that popular expression, “I’m bored,” was heard during the entire drive.

When the destination was finally reached, guess what! Elise was sound asleep. She had to be awakened, and would you believe her reaction?” “Oh, no!” she exclaimed. “We’re here already! I just went to sleep!” she complained.

My wife laughed the whole time she explained the trip to me.

Elise – the whiner. Will she ever outgrow the habit of constantly whining? Believe me, the family is praying she will.

As I share this experience, God is reminding me of how many times I’ve whined during my journey to eternity. How many times I’ve felt that I have been shortchanged in the game of life. How many times I’ve gotten on my pity pot and felt sorry for myself. How many times I’ve been ungrateful and compared my lifestyle with others. How many times I’ve taken my health, my wife, my children, my grandchildren, and my godly friends for granted.

After thinking about it, I’m no different than Elise. Maybe the whining spirit was passed down to her from me, her Paw-Paw.

When I began writing this article, my intention was that it be entertaining. As I end it, it’s been a lesson to me from God. The message: Quit whining and enjoy the trip, or the destination will be a disappointment.

HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477.