Every week day I make a list for Benjamin. It helps focus him with the piles of laundry threatening to evict him from his own room.

Today's list was varied.

Walk to the post office and get the mail
Empty the dishwasher
Fold clothes and put them away
Write two Christmas cards

I feel confident that the items will get crossed off. No debates about the relevance of the tasks. Apparently he trusts me. No back talk. 

Santa has a reputation for making lists. He even double checks for accuracy. The elves follow up on Christmas Eve when they pack his sleigh. No insubordination at the North Pole.

God made me a list. It's called the Ten Commandments. It includes a "Do this" as well as a "Don't do this" category.

The one about "Don't kill" came to mind yesterday when a clever but snarky comment sat perched on my tongue ready to lob at John. While no blood would have been spilled in its delivery the label killjoy would have fit.

I closed my mouth soundlessly.

No back talk. Because the fact is, I trust Him.