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It’s easy, too easy really to dwell on what’s going on in the world. It’s everywhere. Social Media, television, the radio, it’s hard to escape it. I could (and have) spent hours discussing everything and trying to make sense of all the pieces. But that often leads to frustration, hopelessness, and a sense of deep sadness.
While I wholeheartedly believe that we need to be aware of what is going on in the world, do our research, and pray for the wisdom and guidance we need to make the best choices for our family we also need to shut it off every once in a while and take a break. Learn to let it go and find the good that’s right in front of our faces.
For me, that’s simply getting outside and living life.
It’s looking out the window and noticing that the sunflowers are almost taller than the barn. It’s going out to the garden and picking some tomatoes, carrots, or kale and using it in a meal. It’s running outside when I notice the sunset through the windows and taking 25 photos just because I love the light. Or simply sitting out on the deck watching the dogs play in the evening.
If I can’t be outside I make the conscious decision to play music or listen to an audiobook instead of listening to the radio. Playing either my favorite songs on Spotify or YouTube, depending on what I’m in the mood for. Sometimes we’ll even play a CD that we haven’t listened to in a while. Today we needed something calming so we played a Carpenter’s album. When we really need a pick-me-up we’ll play an album full of old Disney songs.
If you’ve been following me you know that one of my favorite things especially as the nights get longer is lighting all the oil lanterns and candles, watching a favorite T.V. show or movie, or listening to an audiobook while I color. The warm glow of the flickering light is something that I find really calming and reassuring. Mom recently bought some candles; two apple-scented and two pumpkin-scented that we lit last night for the first time. They made the entire living room smell like Fall and it made me smile.
If you find yourself needing a break from all the noise or wound a little too tight and needing to destress, what is something that you do to bring comfort or a sense of peace even if only for a few minutes? Share it below!
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
~Matthew 11:28-30
Until next time,
Bailey Sue
