Some words just sound like what they are. I’m thinking of these two words, tedious and odious, as they relate to certain tasks. It’s funny about how I deal with some of the mundane jobs in my life. Tedious and odious tasks. Tasks that I put off, sometimes for weeks, because they are just plain boring and annoying. I can walk right past that pile of mail for days without sorting it. I have been known to stuff the linen closet full of this and that for years. I can’t seem to get myself to fold, let alone throw out, even one mismatched pillowcase. What is that about? Is there a shortage of pillowcases on the horizon? And that silverware drawer with forks and spoons interlocked with chopsticks I felt compelled to save. It begs to be organized. Not to mention the dreaded call to the insurance company that will eventuate in an interminable wait on hold to get to a real human being with a brain. Dreaded tasks. Tedious and odious. Procrastination sets in.
Here is the weird truth. When I finally take hold and tackle one of these jobs, I’m astounded at the sliver of time it takes to complete it. It had grown in my imagination from its miniscule size to an impossible behemoth. I’m also astounded at the level of satisfaction I get from knocking one of these beasts off my “to do” list, the self righteous pats on the back I give myself for making that call, folding those sheets and towels, cleaning out that drawer. Well, I might as well take some pride in my little victory. It’s doubtful that anyone else will notice. I guess that virtue will have to be its own reward.