Slowing Down

Yesterday, my husband and I went for a walk at McConnell Springs. It is a small wooded area that is being restored with native species. Both of us were tired and had lots of items on our "to do" lists but this time we went anyways. On the way we took the back route out to get our minds slowed down before we got there. We had a nice walk. We did the outer loop of a little over a mile and then went to look for wildlife signs around the pond. We talked, relaxed and shared some time together. We spent about an hour of our day doing this and still got the rest of our lists done in a reasonable time period.

After we returned, my youngest daughter was trying to put together a new floor puzzle she had received for her birthday. I was trying to get some stuff done when I realized that it would still be there after I took the time to play with her. It took about 15 minutes of my time but my daughter and I bonded and spent some time together. Later, she wanted to play a card game. Thinking about our time earlier in the day, I stopped and we played the game. 

That night, my oldest daughter was reading a book for her small group she is part of at a local church youth group. She was having some questions about what she was reading. By this time I had my work done and was enjoying some quiet time to myself. I realized that I could still rest in a few minutes but not have time to talk to my daughter about her questions so I took the time. We had a great discussion.

I tell you this because it brings up an important point. "Busyness" that occupies our time is not near as important as spending time with each other. Whether that time is spent doing work together, playing or just talking with each other; it is always time well spent. Sometimes in our busy, crazy lives, we forget these things. I know I do. Part of living a sustainable lifestyle is developing relationships. It is getting off the fast track of life and stopping to spend time with those who are important in our lives-spouses, children, family, friends as well as ourselves.

Take a look at your schedule. Does it have time for yourself and others in it?