So how patient are you? Does you foot start to tap as you wait at the checkout? Life seems so hurried. A full-on non-stop, multi-tasking energy sapping sort of existence seems to be the norm. When did you last sit down and do nothing? And I don't mean when did you last sit down and check your emails, or Facebook, or your Twitter account. When did you last sit down and stopped to think? And I don't mean mean stopping to think about all those things on your to-do list. When did you last sit down, with no agenda, and really thought about those important things in life. Things like friendships and family and faith. When did you last sit down with no agenda?
I must admit to enjoying sitting and reflecting but so often that time gets pushed to one side for something else. There is always so much to do! Over the last year, or so, I have made a conscious effort to re-priorities that which is important. In particular I have done some things for me. Just for me. So often in the hustle and bustle we can squeeze that all important me-time to the point where it becomes almost non-existent. Is it just me? Or do you relate to what I'm saying?
This year I took the bull by the horns and, in the same week, joined a community choir and started a course in improv. By impov I mean - improvised acting. Making it up as you go along - if you will. I like meeting new people. I will talk to anyone but put me in a largish group where I don't know anyone and I am well and truly out of my comfort zone! But I did it. I survived. I made some new friends and I have learnt some new techniques. Most of all I have smiled from ear-to-ear and I have laughed, and laughed, and laughed! I love to sing it is so good for the soul, but I will let you into a secret, I hate to sing on my own. Well, singing on my own when there is no one around bar the cats is fine but definitely not to an audience. I have done it occasionally and am fine when I don't think about it but it is really out of my zone. Performing improv can be a bit scary but the fun factor of it takes over.
Anyway, I digress... We can get even more caught up in the rushing around as we prepare for Christmas but I would encourage you to take some time out, just for you. To sit and to think about what is important. Where is God in the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations? And where are you? Are you to busy rushing around to enjoy life? Have you got your priorities and life balance right? Does something need to change? Is it time to re-priorities? When was the last time you fed your own soul with things that you enjoyed? When did you last laugh out-loud big belly laughs until the tears ran down your face?
In the waiting of Advent may you find those things that bring you joy that can't be wrapped up in a box.
