How to SLOW DOWN
We live in a fast-paced and stressful society.
So many things demand our attention—and, if you’re like me, those things include but are not limited to: spouse, children, parents, job, house-and yard work, and many times lastly, taking care of ourselves.
Many days there is something to do from the time we wake up until our heads hit the pillow at night.
Why is this? Seriously, I don’t think my parents’ generation felt as pressured as we do, yet they had their own issues to deal with. My parents had the Great Depression, World War II, and the Korean War.
My grandfather was a stone mason who came to America from Scotland in search of a better life, only to find that there were no jobs and nothing to be built in the 1920’s. I wish I could talk to him now. I would ask him where in his life he found peace and balance. I know that he was a person of great faith, and that would most likely be his answer.
My grandmother was not a person of material wealth. I remember that before she died, she said to me, “I have nothing to give you but my faith”. And so she did!! My faith has taken me through painful changes in my life, including divorce, and it has brought me to an island of peace. I would imagine that I will, like most every one of you, have more tumult to come in my life. Then I will try to remind myself that every experience is either for joy or for learning!
So, what am I learning now, in my busy, busy life?
Take time to look around every day, and try to find meaning in what I do in my work, in my home, and with my family. You, my patients, give me so much, you will never know!
We are all connected by what we give to each other. The trick is to take the time to notice this. If you can truly see the gifts that God has given to all of us, no matter what our individual circumstances, you will be able to experience God’s peace and know that he has a purpose for you.
It is crucial that you take the time to take care of yourself.
I know that each and every one of you has lots of demands on your time. There is NO time.
If you have young children, there is not even time to go to the bathroom by yourself. And then, when they are finally asleep, you need to do the dishes or laundry, pay bills, clean, or give your spouse some attention (VERY important!). When on earth is there time for yourself? Well, you need to be very intentional about that.
You can’t take care of everyone else well unless you take care of yourself. So, that may mean that you tell your family that you are not available for an hour each evening. Or, maybe you will want to get up an hour earlier in the morning. Half an hour for exercise, and half an hour for reading, meditation, or prayer.
This is the fuel that will help you to do the things in your life that you want and need to do. As the parent of teenagers, I know this very well. I am on this journey with all of you, and I welcome input from you!
Blessings to you!
Anne
