Slow down? Really?

How come when we finally allow our selves the time to slow down we feel guilty about it? Can anyone relate?

One of my goals this year was to slow down; my scripture that found me on my spiritual direction orientation was “Be still and know that I am your God” from Psalm 46. I have worked hard at clearing the family schedule as much as I can, even building in unscheduled days on our family vacation to Italy (which I used to sleep all day after getting super sick).

Now that we’re home from our adventure, I find myself wanting to just rest. I want to nap. I want to read. I don’t want to deal with my school work. I just want to be with my kids, help them learn… and keep my house moderately clean.

And then I feel the guilt creep in: I should be reading the new books I have to teach next year and plan the lessons. I should be redoing my photography website. I should be blogging my photo sessions. I should be trying to get more sessions this summer so I can make more money. I should be editing that wedding from earlier in the month. I should be writing more to get that book published eventually. I need to be like everyone else I see on social media and in my circle who are just doers and just go and go and go….

But will that bring me happiness? Will that bring me closer to God? Will that bring me closer to my family? Probably not entirely. I think I can achieve my dreams AND slow down.

Slow and intentional isn’t bad. Jesus even went away to rest. If we don’t allow our bodies to heal from the business of normal day to day life, we are going to struggle to keep our cup filled and struggle to truly navigate what is most important. It’s easier to get lost.

So this summer, I’m asking for a plea to join me in simplicity. Let your schedule be simple. Let your home be uncluttered. Let yourself enjoy those who are closest to you without having to orchestrate complex adventures. Slow down, and see if it is a bit easier to focus on those things you are grateful for; maybe it will be clearer to you where God is in your life and what gifts you have been given.

In my slowing down, I’ve been finding time to journal every day. I’ve been having my kids do it to an extent, too. I’m finding that when I get rid of the extra “noise” in my life, it’s a bit easier to listen. I hope you’ll find the same results if you choose to simplify your summer! Soak in the slowness, watch the sunsets, and stare at the ocean. Don’t feel guilty about not getting to everything on that to-do list. Being and enjoying life is just as important as doing!