Blog - Your Personal Water Tank - Andy Andrews - Inspirational Author & Speaker

Your Personal Water Tank

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Several years ago, we had almost finished rebuilding our house after the devastation of Hurricane Ivan. When it came time to choose appliances, I let Polly take the lead. To me, a dishwasher is a dishwasher. The only exception was the coffeemaker. I was like a six year old in Toys-R-Us when I saw the coffee maker of my dreams. I am a sucker for unusual gadgets and this particular coffee maker was very unusual.

It was a wall-mounted unit that actually allowed one to choose strength and quantity, then at the push of a button, would grind and compress the beans, finally forcing hot water through the grinds to produce as little as one cup at a time. Incredible! I enjoyed a cup at the urging of an extremely talented salesperson and was sold. I loved it.

Polly, on the other hand, thought I was crazy. She reminded me about how much coffee we drink (not much) and listened skeptically as I used that very fact as my argument for a coffee maker that would brew one cup at a time! “After all,” I pointed out, “we would never drink a whole pot and ‘wastefulness’ is a sin!”

“It’s expensive,” she stated.

“A business necessity,” I countered. “I am, after all, an author. And as slowly as I write, how am I supposed to stay awake without good, strong coffee?”

I’ll spare you the details that include a bit of pouting on my part, but today (in fact, right this very minute) I drink coffee from “my” special coffeemaker!

The only thing I neglected to consider during my quest for this particular appliance was the lack of a waterline existing at its planned location. “No problem,” I was told. “The unit has a water tank that can be filled manually.”

True enough, I still don’t drink much coffee, but it seems like every time I do, I get to see the digital command: FILL WATER TANK.

It turns out that as much as I still like my overpriced coffee maker, the unit itself has become an obvious metaphor for my life. Usually friendly and highly functional, if the water tank is not filled on a daily basis, it becomes a useless item taking up valuable space.

Personally, I find that my own “water tank” is in constant need of attention. My regular devotions, purposeful reading, and quiet time are not luxuries in my life—they are necessary on an every day basis for me to continue becoming the husband, daddy, friend, mentor, and communicator I desire to be.

So my question for you is simple:

1. What actions have you determined are necessities in your life to keep you on track?

2. How do you fill your water tank?

Your friend,

Andy

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Posted in Uncategorized | Make a Comment (54) |

1. Rick Meewes - December 3, 2009 @ 10:14 AM

"Andy,

Thanks, people go through life with people filling your water bucket , taking water out of your bucket and or draining your bucket and throwing your bucket away. I have to fill my bucket daily......."

2. Jim "Gymbeaux" Brown - December 3, 2009 @ 10:33 AM

"Like you I read, especially anything written by some guy named Andy Andrews, I listen to music and I like to write. Have not done much with what I have written, just gives me a lot of satisfaction to write down what I am thinking at the time. The thoughts are usually triggered by something I have read, seen or heard."

3. Warren Wojnowski - December 3, 2009 @ 10:56 AM

"Great post Andy. I love the analogy you've used.

I know for me, it's often really easy to lapse into "doing" mode and neglect to fill my tank. Whenever I do that, I start to feel off-purpose.

For me, taking the time to journal for a few minutes in the morning to review my goals and then in the evening to set my "to do" list for tomorrow are key actions that help me fill my tank and keep me grounded and on purpose.

Thanks for sharing this little story."

4. Pam - December 3, 2009 @ 10:58 AM

"I fill my tank with first my Lord Jesus Christ. When I start my day with Him everything seems better. I read wonderful inspiring books like ones written by Andy Andrews and listen to inspiring music and people."

5. Marsha - December 3, 2009 @ 11:57 AM

"Very good words for thought today, Andy. Thanks for making a difference in the lives of many for His Kingdom! May God continue to bless you & use you."

6. Gene - December 3, 2009 @ 12:04 PM

"I find that the only real way to fill my tank is through following my Savior in giving service and love to those around me."

7. Martha Martin - December 3, 2009 @ 12:20 PM

"Hello Andy,
Maintaining my water tank requires constant attention. Time spent with God is Like a flower garden, the more time I put,in the more Joy you can recieve. Thanks for reminding me to "fill" my tank."

8. Karla Silver - December 3, 2009 @ 12:31 PM

"Thank you Andy. Like Warren, above, it is easy for me (and probably most people) to get caught up in the responsibilities, drama, obligations, to-do lists, the "doing" in life, and neglect filling our water tanks. Every time I "remember" to do this, my life is enriched, my results increase, and my "coffee" gets better.

Keep doing what you do, because you, and your writing, is one of the ways that I get to fill MY water tank.

In gratitude,
Karla"

9. Jamie - December 3, 2009 @ 12:32 PM

"I find that I must focus on not allowing people to utilize me as a "garbage can with a hairy lid" (as one of my friend calls it). I have found that the more negative you put in the tank - the more that comes out. Therefore, I make the time to read books like The Noticer and take the time to read a few pages from Storms of Perfection. Filling my tank with positive thoughts allows me to fill those people around me with positive thoughts. I try to live by the idea that "thoughts become things...choose the good ones"...thanks for filling my tank with good thoughts!"

10. Virginia - December 3, 2009 @ 12:36 PM

"as stated in an earlier text; One cannot draw water from an empty well.

We know that cars can't perform and serve us unless we tend to physical needs such as gas in the tank and regular oil cahnges. So why do we think we can function and serve purposeful lives when we neglect our inner maintainance?? Seems almost rhetorical but reminders such as yours today are needed and welcomed.

Thanks Andy, you just filled my tank"

11. Beverley - December 3, 2009 @ 12:47 PM

"My pets are my personal water tank. Every day they show me that needs are simple and gratitude for the little things is important, too. I spend time with them and I am able to remember that my day was good, my needs are met, and I am thankful for that."

12. JW3 - December 3, 2009 @ 12:55 PM

"I always look forward to your posts, friend. This one is of particular interest. Every morning, at 4 am or so, I trudge downstairs for my "refill" time. I turn on the coffee maker - simple Braun type, with the beeper turned off. I then pull out my rather large, daily affirmation journal. I begin thanking the Lord for what I am, what I have become, and what I am becoming. I then pray, individually, for everyone I know and love. Mind you, I used to have them all listed on a sheet of paper, or Excel workbook, and just lift my hands over them. However, I have found that I have more connection to them by using a fabulous writing stick (Monte Blanc Roller Ball), quality paper, and actually writing them down by name.
This begins my prayerful journey in the morning, and my ownership of a Thankful Heart.
After praying for those closest to me, and those of the leadership of my country, state (NC), city, neighborhood, employer - I confess and affirm those traits that I aspire to exhibit - Man of Action; Grateful Heart; Persistence; Forgiveness; and others that speak to my heart.
THEN, I start my day... and when I don't do this - my wife and kids can tell. Takes about 22 minutes or so.

All the best,
John"

13. Karen - December 3, 2009 @ 12:59 PM

"Thanks Andy, like most women I'm to busy filling everyone else's tank and neglecting my own. Music is my best connection to God, we commune every morning on the way to work."

14. Walter - December 3, 2009 @ 1:15 PM

"Great post Andy. Reminds me of a great book I read a few years back on Margin in our lives - which is similar to your point. The things we do to "fill out tank" are usually helping us sort out the challenges and demands in our lives - which in turn maintains a margin for the surprises - which are all too regular."

15. Beth McCowan - December 3, 2009 @ 1:23 PM

"I have determined it a necessity to fill my water tank by first inviting the Holy Spirtit into my life! Then, I read from my daily Scripture reading while journaling what God is doing in my life. Another necessity is praying first thing in the morning with my husband. I just finished "The Traveler's Gift! I am looking forward to mastering them through daily reading of The Seven Decisions! Thank you for this divine book! As a caregiver, I need to continuously fill my water tank! Praise God for His faithfulness! Thank you for this time of reflection!"

16. Larry Enslen - December 3, 2009 @ 1:50 PM

"It's amazing how dry a person can become and not even notice how it happens - gradually, not tending to the heart and soul - until a crisis or challenge comes up. I absolutely need and fully enjoy an early morning time of quiet taking in the soulish water of God's word (with the satisfying taste of the darkly brew). Also, of utmost enjoyment and necessity is time spent weekly in meaningful conversation with a close friend - once again - over a cup of strong coffee."

17. Jim Kane - December 3, 2009 @ 2:02 PM

"The devotional time of which you speak and reading are ways of filling my tank."

18. Jean R. Skipper - December 3, 2009 @ 2:28 PM

"My personal tank is dangerously close to empty at the moment. The good news that I'm aware of it, and I'm actively seeking to refill.

I just began to read The Traveler's Gift again. I purchased an additional copy because I seem to have gifted most recent one to aother friend. This time I also purchased the companion book, and I'm looking forward to working through it too.

'Tis the season in my work as an artist and gallery owner, and it's challenging for me to slow down right now. Sooo...I've actively approached several friends who've volunteered to provide gallery staffing for me for two weeks at the beginning of January. This self-imposed time-out will allow me to catch-up, recharge, and plan for a more peaceful and purposeful 2010.

Do you remember calling "Time-Out!" when you were a kid? I'm giddy with the possibilities!"

19. BV - December 3, 2009 @ 2:42 PM

"I have discovered that you have to be your own best friend....not in a conceited way but in a caring, loving way. How do I you react to a friend in need? I need to take care of my spiritual self before I become too needy....prayer, self-affirmation, exercise, inspirational reading, journaling...then I have my tank of resources ready to share with others. I am reminded in this Advent season that the best gifts are those of the spirit."

20. Mindy - December 3, 2009 @ 2:51 PM

"I must be different. Everytime I fill my water tank I have to pee."

21. Rebekah @ It Only Gets Better - December 3, 2009 @ 3:03 PM

"I think I needed to hear this from someone other than my Sunday School teacher and pastor. Thank you, Andy. I might have to find myself one of those overpriced coffee pots for a daily reminder that I haven't filled my own water tank. If I was a car, I'd have stalled on the side of the road a long time ago and would currently be racking up fines for being stranded on the shoulder. I've run out of gas."

22. jan burch - December 3, 2009 @ 3:17 PM

"hi Andy,
Filling my "water tank" to me is the equivalent of recharging my batteries and resupplying my joy and peace each and every morning FIRST THING. Merry Christmas to you, Polly and the boys. Love, JB"

23. Matthew Butter - December 3, 2009 @ 3:34 PM

"One of your best blogs yet! Thanks for the encouragement. You are an incredible mentor to me..sincerest appreciation
Matthew (AustinMatt)"

24. R Dean Amos - December 3, 2009 @ 3:55 PM

"Andy...You are so good at "tickling" my thinker. A cup of coffee from my one cup at a time coffee maker starts my day. Then, telling God how grateful I am for my blessings and asking for more for my family and friends, especially those who are ill or otherwise having a challenge or two.
The Crystal Cathedral used to fill my tank. But, since they threw Robert Anthony out the back door, the program on Sunday morning just doesn't do it anymore. So, I turn to printed matter. John Maxwell,Og Mandino, Steven Covey, Dr Ben Carson, and a very special guy by the name of Andy Andrews, all fill my tank with good stuff!
Thanks for being you,l and, keep on being YOU! Chordially, Dean"

25. Tim Hendrix - December 3, 2009 @ 3:57 PM

"To start each day in prayer , the Word and time with God I get up an hour early and fill my tank ! Also worship is a powerful way to recharge and I do that daily. God doesn't mind if you sing off-key! A comtemporary mid-week worship service is great and I try to laugh a lot. Have been picking up some good clean comedy on Sirus radio "Laugh USA " channel 151 by guy named Andy ... thanks ."

26. Dave - December 3, 2009 @ 4:08 PM

"Thanks Andy,
Sometimes you really need to hear something and here I am, reading your blog, wondering what's not quite right with me? Alas, my tank is running low! And I didn't even know it...where's the gauge or that small light on us humans?
I think 'daily' being the operative word in your blog...I may have missed a couple of days in the past week and there you have it.
With your permission, I'll be sharing that story with a group of friends tonite.
Dave"

27. Debbie - December 3, 2009 @ 5:43 PM

"That is a good one! I have heard it another way: A lumber jack cutting trees kept working even when his saw chain was dull, what took him 2 minutes to cut through was now taking 5. He didn’t want to stop for 15 minutes to sharpen the chain he looked at it as unproductive time and a waste. He continued to work and do less and less had he stopped he would have cut more wood and been more productive.

When do you stop to sharpen the chainJ"

28. Drew Akridge - December 3, 2009 @ 8:02 PM

"Andy,
Very thoughtful and a great truth. Can't count the times my tank was empty and I needed a cup. Thanks for all you do. Merry Christmas!"

29. Tommy Bazor - December 3, 2009 @ 8:43 PM

"Andy,
Like so many of your readers, I have to agree that getting my day started around 5:00 in the morning with a good cup of coffee and GOD'S word makes the day so much more enjoyable. It pleases GOD(my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ)in wanting to seek Him first before I get busy for the day.I would like to say that my pitcher of water is half full.May GOD continue to bless you and your family and the writing you do.Keep up the great work."

30. Bonnie Bartel Latino - December 3, 2009 @ 10:08 PM

"What a GREAT metaphor, Andy. As always, thanks for sharing.

I've recently gone through some rough times with deterioration of five of my cervical spine disks. Damage ranges from mild to severe. The disks are all in my neck. Being on computer is one of the worst things I can do...as a writer, that's devastating. Tom bought me a twenty-minute timer that I have to use; then do neck exercises and reset the timer for another twenty...constantly. I'm having lots of physical therapy three times a week and also having to travel to N. Baldwin Infirmary's Wellness Center to walk in chest deep water several times a week.

Despite doing everything I've been told to do (and many things I had to stop doing (like lifting virtually ANYTHING), I'm still having pain. The other afternoon the head physical therapist sat me down and gave me what I thought was a grim prognosis--seeing a neurologist and possible neck surgery.

I came home and broke down. My sweet Tom held me for awhile and let me vent, then he acted like he was changing the subject and told me about an acquaintance of ours whom he'd run into that day in the grocery story. He said she looked great, but he almost didn't recognize her. Massive chemo has rendered her previously blond hair, brown.

She's had a horrific type of blood cancer and will be taking chemo-therapy for two more YEARS with lots of trips to Little Rock, AK, for treatment...

Without saying a word, Tom, my personal water tank taught me about gratitude and thanksgiving.

With God's grace, my whining days are over.

Love you, Andy. I'm glad you are in my life. You do Alabama SO proud.

~Bon"

31. Elisa - December 3, 2009 @ 10:46 PM

"I am taking time each day to find three things I am grateful for...and writing them down in my gratitude journal. And every day at sunset...I spend time with the L-rd and tell him
directly.
It works miracles...try it yourself!"

32. Renee Badertscher - December 3, 2009 @ 11:18 PM

"Being a "helping professional", I well know the necessity of filling my own tank if I am to be helpful to others. I do this several ways, but one I am most passionate about is picking up my camera and going outside. There, looking through the view finder, everything else, including my worries and stresses, goes away and the natural world seen through a four-sided figure is all the world there is for me at that moment. It's amazing how my perspective changes. My world has manageable perameters again. Decisions become practical. I am living in the moment. My goal is to capture for that moment the beauty around me that I would have missed if I were not looking for it. Finding a different perspective on a simple subject is my most satisfying task. Photographing the ordinary in an extraordinary way is a wonderful way to "fill my tank"."

33. Katrina Anderson - December 3, 2009 @ 11:59 PM

"This time of year, with Christmas rapidly approaching, all I need to do is put on my favorite Willie Nelson Christmas cd...(yes, there is such a thing)...pour a good strong cup of herbal tea, and grab a large bag of Kettle Salt/Vinegar Chips...that's all I need to fill my tank and keep me focused on what I need to do today! Oh...and the occasional piece of chocolate...let's not forget that."

34. Steve Peterson - December 4, 2009 @ 1:54 AM

"God teaches and trains us in many ways. I recall a story of a man ship wrecked on an island with nothing but a tarp for shelter and a fire. He saw a ship on the horizon and started jumping frontically, and did not notice the wind picking up and did not notice the tarp blowing into his fire taking away 50% of his possesions. When he noticed the fire he cried blaming God for his loss when a rescue party approached him from behind and told him how smart he was to throw the tarp in the fire to produce the smoke that lead them to him.."

35. Stephanie Carrano - December 4, 2009 @ 5:55 AM

"I am grateful for all of your stories Mr. Andrews. Thank You for finding me...

I also loved the story Steve Peterson told on Dec. 4. I realized a similar situation while learning about my computer. Thanks for reminding me of that Andy and Steve.

God Bless you both.

Have a wonderful Christmas everybody.
Stephanie"

36. Susan - December 4, 2009 @ 9:24 AM

"Andy,
As if mused on your blog throughout the day, I was struck by a comment I read in health magazines and that I find true in my own life--we sometimes don't realize that we are thirsty. I don't remember the actual figures, but it was surprising how many people do not recognize their "thirst indicator." I find that I will eat sometimes instead of drink water, when actually my body is just thirsty. I think it ties in--we need to fill the water tank whether we think we "need" it or not. By getting the water we need each day, we are not thirsty but satisfied. And by filling the water tank you refer to, again, we have the resources for the demands that are put on us each day. Thank you for the very though-provoking questions. I need to go fill my water tank (and my water bottle) now, so have a great day!"

37. Nancy - December 4, 2009 @ 9:55 AM

"Andy,
Music is my prayer and "tank filler-upper" especially Ernie Haase and Signature Sound."

38. Val Haderlie - December 4, 2009 @ 10:31 AM

"Andy, you have been keeping me on the right track for the past five years (ever since we met at a personal development conference in Cancun). We met again in Puerto Rico and the last time I saw you, I was in a wheel chair at another conference in Cancun (I had knee surgery the day I got back to the states.) We spoke about your character, Danny, in Island of Saints and I told you that I have a young adult son with Down syndrome. I have all your books, CDs, DVDs, and so do many other people because I keep giving them away! Your "Seven Decisions" are posted on the bathroom mirror. I assure you that I've replaced it a couple of times in the past five years :) Thank you, Andy, once again for your reminder and this was definitely the right day for me to receive this gift from you. My love to you and Polly and your beautiful boys. You are my hero, Andy."

39. Carol - December 4, 2009 @ 1:23 PM

"I know that I need to study His word every day. And I know the feeling of the empty water tank. Thank you for this wonderful analogy."

40. Chuck - December 4, 2009 @ 4:37 PM

"After years of watching my wonderful wife and being hard headed and doing it my way, I have purposed this year to make it a habit of filling my water tank every day by starting in the Word. It was not easy at first but now I truly miss it if I don't start my day with that time with God. How can I expect my children to develop their own relationship with God if I don't model that relationship myself?
The actions that I need to take to keep me on track are constant evaluating if I am doing the right things by reading and listening. Especially listening as I read his Word. The next step I take is doing what I hear or know I should instead of just thinking about it, which used to happen. You know about the road being paved with good intentions, right?"

41. Betty Nance - December 4, 2009 @ 8:18 PM

"Andy: Bless you for sharing your experiences and stories to inspire us to do better and fill our tanks with the Word. I'm thankful God put us (visitors from Arkansas) at the dedication of the Orange Beach pier where we took the opportunity to meet the "local author". From that brief meeting we have been so encouraged through your books and messages. What a joy you are! We wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas."

42. Barbara Barrett - December 6, 2009 @ 12:45 AM

"I consider your writings a necessity in my life! Please keep on "drinking" that cup of coffee so you can keep on writing the things you do."

43. Chip Brodersen - December 6, 2009 @ 11:47 AM

"My personal water tank is Jesus ! everyday he challanges me and puts people or situations in my way to keep me sharp and to keep me a missionary in y own way. When God calls does he get a busy signal?"

44. Andy Andrews - December 7, 2009 @ 10:17 AM

"Hey Everyone...Wow! I love reading your posts. Thanks so much for taking the time to share with me. I get a terrific "tank refill" from YOU!"

45. Dr Ray Ramirez - December 7, 2009 @ 1:53 PM

"Woah - Andy.

As a guy who just came back from a retreat, this hit me. While I was emptying myself, I did not know why I was still feeling empty.

I was not thinking of how to 'fill myself up'.

Thanks for that great analogy.
Ray"

46. Jim Fargo - December 11, 2009 @ 11:57 AM

"Dear Andy,

I just received a copy of your book The Butterfly Effect. Thank you for sending it. It’s appreciated more than you will ever know. I also just finished reading your blog about refilling our tanks. I find that there is no limit on the ways in which our tanks get drained. The world throws a lot at us, so do people, work, family, friends and a whole number of responsibilities that we all have. Your reminder to refill my tank was a divine appointment for me, the timing was perfect. I needed a refill. There are a handful of people that are in my life; my wife, my best friend Steve, my Pastor Mike, my kids, and most of all my Lord and Savior Jesus. These are the people I rub elbows with everyday and every week that help me refill my tank. But you are someone I’ve met only one time and yet I stay in contact with you through a book or a blog and you Andy help refill my tank also. Thank you! Weather it’s listening to Rodger Ridley singing Stand by Me or reading the Noticer or being reminded that my life and my words and my actions matter, you help refill my tank and I’m forever grateful

Jim Fargo
Greeley Colorado"

47. Melba Ward - December 14, 2009 @ 4:40 PM

"Andy,

My husband and I are in Orange Beach for a few days relaxation. We live in Birmingham and heard you speak several years ago at our church (Shades Mountain Baptist in Vestavia Hills). Love your blog about the water tank--that is one reason we are here this week (to get refilled). Besides your great coffeemaker, where can we find a good cup of coffee in Orange Beach--would also love to buy you and your wife a cup. One of my plans this week while here is to reread "The Noticer."

Melba"

48. Melba Ward - December 14, 2009 @ 4:42 PM

"Andy,

Didn't give you the full email address, sorry. Now you should have it.

Melba"

49. Beau - December 14, 2009 @ 10:41 PM

"Great post, I just filled my tank by reading and rereading "Socks for Christmas" A simple story with a profound message. As Jones might say your story provides a healthy dose of perspective."

50. Tim Blair - December 16, 2009 @ 12:34 PM

"Oddly enough, my tank gets filled when I'm pouring it out on others. I suppose there's a limit to this, but I haven't found it yet."

51. Bruce Pittman - December 26, 2009 @ 6:28 PM

"Hey Andy
I find that my water tank is refilled best not only by what I do, but where I refill it. I find my heart renewed & my soul restored outdoors. Something about the blue sky, clouds, chirping birds and a nice breeze refills my tank."

52. Dr Bill Toth - December 30, 2009 @ 1:36 PM

"Andy - always a pleasure. Today it was decided your "HalfTime" story should go to our Team. Such an appropriate piece as we come upon the day of "introspection" and "resolution" for many.
Live With Intention,
DrBillToth.com/blog"

53. Stephen Shields - January 16, 2010 @ 8:28 PM

"Absolutely amazing way to put it! My "water tank" has been empty - I almost burned an element! Thank you for the "perspective.""

54. Jen - January 19, 2010 @ 1:16 AM

"Ahh, but I haven't determined which actions are necessities. And therein lies the problem. I shall have to rectify that IMMEDIATELY :)"