Don't Hurry

There is no reason to hurry through life to reach those heights of achievement associated with the paths we have chosen. Everything seems to be rushed in our world today. We are far more attentive to the dramatic and intense experiences that present themselves than to the moments when nothing seems to be happening. We feel a need to cram as much into every moment as we possibly can. We actually compete with each other to demonstrate how busy we are. The busier we are the more important our position. Of course this is not the case. Enjoying and fully experiencing the journey of life is more important than getting to the top and conquering goals. There are lessons we can learn during the seemingly insignificant moments that cannot be taught at any other time.

Our lives are guided by natural rhythms that are unique to each of us. Soren Kierkegaard once said that “Most people pursue pleasure with such breathless haste that they hurry past it.” The truth is that life is a journey made up of processes that cannot be altered by force. Time is a great equalizer which sweeps away the importance of events that seemed to be so critical when we were engaged in them. Delight lives within our own hearts. We can't help but encounter delight in the small moments when we give them our unconditional attention.

It is important to remember that everything which happens in life will occur in its own time. There is no rush. We begin to connect with all that has gone unnoticed when we celebrate the ordinary moments in life. The secret is becoming patient enough to take pleasure in life’s unfolding.

Slow Down You Move Too Fast

“Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life” ~ Rachel Carson

We are fascinated by a little inch worm making his way along a twig, a frog sitting on a lily pad, the patterns of frost on the window when we are children. The beautiful details are everywhere and we lie on the front lawn and marvel at them. Clouds have shapes that turn in to Mickey Mouse. Birds all make different songs for us to imitate. We go inside and our parents ask “What have you been doing?” and we can’t even begin to tell them. Don’t they KNOW ?

The problem is that the adults have mostly forgotten. They are too busy with jobs and shopping…cooking and cleaning… being responsible for something or another…to slow down and appreciate the mysteries and miracles around them. They grew up and have taken the details for granted. They think that there is not enough time. A friend told me that she needs peace in her life. Peace is all around us. We only have to lie down on the front lawn to witness it’s awe.

How can I slow down and savor life today?