I occasionally run across the phrase “we are spiritual beings not spiritual doings”. I like this a lot since first of all it speaks to the grace vs. works dilemma. And probably a bit to the sloth in me also.
The idea of taking time to “be” intrigues me though. What does that mean? What does it look like – and how does one keep from trying to figure out how to “do being”?
At the turn of the year (2011), something I was reading challenged me to choose a word for the year. The word I chose was “pause”. There is a huge blessing in rest and not just physical rest. Life and the world we live in seem to accelerate every day. It is easy to get caught in the barrage whether it is email, or Facebook, or Twitter, or some other “feed”. It is difficult to remember that just as we become bloated and obese and unhealthy if we continually feed our physical selves, we also become mentally bloated and obese and unhealthy if we continually feed our mental selves.
“Pause” is more than just “turn off”. It is also “stop”. Sit down. Wait. Reflect – but gently. Pausing is not the time for self-flagellation. Take time to actually see. And hear. And listen. And choose. Go for the pull rather than accept the push.
Finally, bask. I am convinced there is not enough true, healthy basking. Be immersed in the grandeur of nature, of friendship, of joy, of things that are created rather than things that are delivered. Stop buying all that you are offered. Be selective and choosy.
Be still. And know. Be.
Just Sayin' 