Life and technology seem to be moving at an increasingly faster pace. There are so many options now to help us stay in communication with each other which indeed can be a blessing. Facebook has been one of those options, one that I hold near and dear to my heart that has helped me to meet some amazing people from all over the world, helped me to promote my business, given me an outlet for expression and creativity, and been a source of news and information.
But the faster life seems to go by, the more I feel the need to slow down. To savor the richness and beauty of life here on Earth. How may times have you walked from your home to your car, focused on your thoughts of your “to do list” but not even noticing what is really going on around you? The constant symphony, both vibrant and subtle. The gentle swell of the breeze, the harmonizing songs of birds and insects, the healing warmth of the sun on your skin, the uplifting fragrance of flowers in bloom. These beautiful and sacred expressions barely register on our minds as we rush from have-to-do to have-to-do.
And in the seemingly rare moments of catching our breath and being able to reflect on life, we tend to feel a regret about not taking the time to do what fills our senses, uplifts and nourishes our souls, and leaves us feeling alive.
But think about it. This is a choice we make, whether consciously or not. Aligning our thoughts, emotions, actions, and reactions with what we feel we have to do rather than what we want to do. Yes, life demands a certain amount of responsibility. Bills do not pay themselves. Friends and loved ones often require our time, attention, and energy. But it really is a choice to keep putting yourself second, or even last on your list of priorities. Giving and giving and giving until there is very little left over. Then at times we end up resenting our lives, wishing that things were different.
So although these modern conveniences may keep us in touch with each other and this world, they can never truly allow us to participate in life. Looking at a beautiful photo of a sunset can never take the place of witnessing the splendor of one in person. Think of how many times in this life that you have actually viewed this powerful moment in person. Probably not many. But if you take the time and make the effort, you can experience this phenomenal gift.
I challenge you to take a look at the flow of your day. Is it possible that you can take some time each day to do something that truly feeds and nourishes your soul? Set down your phone. Turn of your television. Close your book. Step outside, take a deep breath, let your gaze be filled with the beauty that surrounds you. You may begin to notice details. Observing nature is very meditative and take you deeper into yourself and simultaneously deeper into the cosmos. It is hard to feel small when you see the rich details of nature.
You are worth it. Your inner peace, well being, joy, and harmony are worth taking time each day to disconnect from this hard wired world of artificiality and to bond with the organic beauty and flow that is all around.
Blessed Journeys,
Matthew