Feeling Groovy!

I’ve experienced one of those weeks where at the end of each day I’ve felt further behind. You know how it is—take one step forward and you end up two steps back. Frustrating, isn’t it?

In many ways, it’s my own fault. I’m a list maker, which can actually be a positive thing. But when I don't meet self-imposed deadlines—when I can't cross off tasks—it can affect my mood. That’s NOT a good thing.

Why is it that we Americans focus on being ultra-productive? People in other countries look at us and think we’re crazy. When my oldest daughter spent time in Spain, she loved the fact that everyone and everything shut down for a period of time in the afternoon so people could rest.

Can you imagine what would happen if we stopped doing business every day for an hour in the USA? People wouldn’t rest. They’d watch the clock, nervously tapping their feet to see when they could get back to their desk, computers, phones, and meetings.

I don’t think God intends for us to live this way.

I DO believe that he doesn’t want us to be lazy. God blesses hard work. But I think he also desires and honors balance in our lives. After all, God’s design included a day of rest.

Remember those lazy summer days when we were younger? A friend and I actually spent an afternoon lying on the lawn, watching clouds go by. I spent countless hours under a tree reading books without caring about anything else. I enjoyed working in my grandmother’s flower gardens. At times, I became totally absorbed in creating imaginary fairy worlds with flowers, leaves, acorns, and sticks.

We can’t be children forever … but I hope we don’t lose all childlike qualities. Along with being responsible and productive, don’t we also need to play?

I need to lighten up on myself when it comes to crossing things off my list. I need to set more realistic goals. Do you?

Years ago, the singing duo, Simon and Garfunkel, encouraged people to slow down with their “The 59th Street Bridge Song” (Feeling Groovy).

Listen … and relax.

Have a great week!
Dawn