Sunday Sermon

I didn't study this weekend. I didn't do my laundry. I didn't work out. I didn't read for class. I didn't do any cleaning. I didn't watch any TV. I didn't even listen to my usual weekend radio programs - no "Prairie Home Companion," no "Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me!," and no "Car Talk."

I basically took the weekend off. I spent some time visiting a dear friend, and we didn't really have any plans. We drove around and looked at odd rock formations, including the ones above (that photo was taken a while ago though - there is a big hotel in the foreground now...). We made dinner together, baked some vegan cupcakes, sat in the hot tub, and played fetch with the dog.

All though I certainly have plenty of work to do for my classes, I just can't feel bad about spending my time this way. This is the lowest my stress level has been since before Christmas.

When was the last time you gave yourself permission to do nothing? This is significantly different from just not getting things done and then feeling bad about it - I do that all too often. No, this was a conscious attempt on my part to do nothing that could be construed as constructive work. For the most part, it was completely successful. As Raksha used to tell me, "I did absolutely nothing, and it was everything I thought it could be!"

I believe it is time for consciously doing nothing to make a comeback. We 21st century folk are not sitting on the porch enough these days. I believe that all of us should plan some nothing time. Get your work done to make space for it, then give yourself permission to be still. If you need a note for your teacher/boss/spouse, just drop me an email - I'll be happy to write one excusing you from all responsibilities.

Go in Peace.