The Art of a Reset

There is an art to operating the dishwasher in my kitchen. Nay, it’s more of a science. But, art makes it sound more sophisticated, like there’s a hidden beauty and intentionality behind it. Plus, I just like art more than science. 

Therefore, about once a week, I’m left to interpret this piece of art. 

What is it speaking to me? 

What emotions does it evoke? 

What is behind this machine’s incessant need to trip the breaker on a weekly basis?

Why, oh why does it hate me? 

While it is used often, even daily, it’s a fairly new model and it’s efficient. It may be dented, but that blemish is purely cosmetic and character-giving. We use decent detergent and keep its tank filled with praise, accolades, and rinse aid. 

Yet this powerful cleaning machine forces the user to walk to the garage, locate the breaker switch now labeled “DISHWASHER” and flip it about once a week. For no good reason.

Just like artwork, with its many layers of paint, brushstrokes, and meaning, there is something going on behind the walls that is not immediately obvious to the eye. 

Somewhere, somehow, there is a disconnect between appliance and power source. 

So, I squint as I contemplate the frustration and inconvenience of this little quirk while reminiscing of the days I somehow lived in a century-old house sans dishwasher. I squint my eyes and cock my head ever so slightly, as one does while gazing intently at a work of art one does not fully comprehend.

There it is. I see it now. 

Sometimes a reset is just necessary.

Sometimes it means pausing and stepping away. It can involve stepping towards something as well. It means reconnecting and repairing.

It’s temporarily stepping away from those mountains of laundry, that toddler meltdown, a heated conversation, an IKEA furniture assembly.

It’s stepping toward forgiveness, a dirt trail deep in the woods, the open arms of a Heavenly Father, a 3-hour nap.

Sometimes it means reconnecting with our inner child, the great outdoors, early-morning quiet time, late-night teenager chats; repairing a lost relationship, a shattered dream, weakened faith... or an old, well-loved house with a trippy dishwasher. 

Restoration is possible. A fresh start is at our fingertips. We just need to pause and reset every once in a while. There may be an art to it and science behind it, but when we take the time to flip the switch, it’s beautiful how things can be washed clean.

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