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When we rush through our days and lives, we
fail to notice the simple beauty of living. 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 those commitments and activities that
do not benefit us in some way. The extra time we 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 with cell phones, emails, 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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