I was putting the finishing touches on a presentation I will be delivering at the Caregiver Summit on November 6th when I took to heart my own words: we are living in a season of our lives – it’s not forever – it’s a season.
Seasons come and go – we do not become the season – we go through the seasons.
Going full speed ahead; facing delays; healing; giving; receiving … are some of the seasons we experience.
I feel at my best when I am doing and creating, but the energy for those activities comes from cycles of rest and renewal.
Sure, we are hopefully getting rest each night, but sometimes … sometimes we need more than a few hours.
Sometimes, we need to embrace a season of rest.
While my mind has been saying, “but I want to …” – my body and spirit are saying, “Whoa! Slow down!”
I’ve just felt a little ‘off’ lately.
There have been half-day holidays from productivity. There have been whole days of very limited accomplishments when only major ‘fires’ are being put out.
You know what? That’s okay.
While my get-up-and-go has not vanished by any means, it hasn’t been lasting as long.
Today, I just woke up to the truth. Rather than feeling ‘less-than,’ I am feeling ‘enough.’
That fragrant cup of tea needs to be savored – the Asian persimmon from the corner fruit stand is slowly enjoyed and appreciated for its subtle flavor.
The warmth of the sun on my back is enjoyed longer as I read yet another chapter of a good book.
Who am I to turn away from the natural ebb and flow?
It may be your season to rest for a spell, also.
Let the ordinary become a source of building up your inner strength:
As you hydrate with water, feel its life-giving energy filling you.
As you linger over a cup of herbal tea, imagine its steam taking your concerns away.
Gently stretch each morning to open pathways that allow the natural flow of inner cleansing and nourishment.
Pause to embrace a sense of gratitude throughout the day. Open you eyes to the blessings that surround you, even on challenging days.
Reward your body with simple, nourishing, and colorful whole foods. Let go of the processed food with labels.
Am I sounding Zen? Perhaps … why not?
As the seasons surround us in a purposeful change, so too can we embrace our seasons with acceptance – so its purpose may be fulfilled.
Writing this is one of just a few accomplishments for me today – and that is enough!
Time to catch the sunset!
In health –
Deidre