Throughout our lives, we are taught to value speed and getting things done
quickly. We learn that doing is more valuable than merely being, and that
making the most of life is a matter of forging ahead at a hurried pace. Yet
as we lurch forward in search of some elusive sense of fulfillment, we find ourselves
feeling increasingly harried and disconnected. More importantly, we fail to
notice the simple beauty of living. When we learn to slow down, we rediscover
the significance of seemingly inconsequential aspects of life. Mealtimes
become meditative celebrations of nourishment. A job well-done becomes a
source of profound pleasure, no matter what the nature of our labors. In
essence, we give ourselves the gift of time -- time to indulge our curiosity,
to enjoy the moment, to appreciate worldly wonders, to sit and think, to
connect with others, and to explore our inner landscapes more fully.
A life savored slowly need not be passive, inefficient, or slothful.
Conducting ourselves at a slower pace enables us to be selective in how we
spend our time and to fully appreciate each passing moment. Slowness can even
be a boon in situations that seem to demand haste. When we pace ourselves for
even a few moments as we address urgent matters, we can center ourselves
before moving ahead with our plans. Embracing simplicity allows us to
gradually purge from our lives those commitments and activities that do not
benefit us in some way. The extra time we consequently gain can seem like
vast, empty stretches of wasted potential. But as we learn to slow down, we soon
realize that eliminating unnecessary rapidity from our experiences allows us
to fill that time in a constructive, fulfilling, and agreeable way. We can
relish our morning rituals, linger over quality time with loved ones, immerse
ourselves wholeheartedly in our work, and take advantage of opportunities to
nurture ourselves every single day.
You may find it challenging to avoid giving in to the temptation to rush,
particularly if you have acclimated to a world of split-second communication,
cell phones, email and overflowing agendas. Yet the sense of continuous
accomplishment you lose when you slow down will quickly be replaced by
feelings of magnificent contentment. Your relaxed tempo will open your mind
and heart to deeper levels of awareness that help you discover the true
gloriousness of being alive.
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