I like to keep busy. I am usually involved in several projects at once, am constantly trying to learn new skills, and am always in a state of dreaming up new projects or researching new ideas. I also work full-time, have a large garden, am in the process of renovating my house (ok, that is mostly hubby but I do show up for painting now and again) and feel compelled to make everything that goes into my mouth from scratch. And in typical type A fashion also have the compulsion to excel at everything I do.
I rarely sit down. Except to write blog posts, or to read other people’s blog posts (and gather more new ideas!)
I like life this way. I don’t really know any other way to live. But sometimes, I long for the world to slow down. I keep thinking…”tomorrow there will be less to do and I ‘ll just take some time to relax.” And then tomorrow arrives with its growing to-do list and sometimes I jump into bed with my mind still whirring.
I complained about this state of busyness once until someone reminded me that I choose to live this way. And when I thought about it I realized that they were right. I thrive on this kind of lifestyle and wouldn’t know what to do with myself if there literally was, “nothing” to do.
But I still need time to breathe.
And so it is that I have begun to carve out times in my daily routine to rest.
Like when I need to shuck the peas.
It is a job that has to be done, yes. But it is also a chance to slow down and enjoy the little pleasures of life.
Like the feel of the hot sun on my back as I sit at the picnic table.
The smoothness of the pea pods in my hands.
The gentle ping as each pea falls into the bowl.
And as the pile of peas in the bowl grows, I breathe a little slower.
And count my blessings.
And just listen.
And when the peas are done, I head onto the next task a little more refreshed and rejuvenated.
And my chores don’t seem like chores any more, but opportunities to rest and unwind my mind. Hanging laundry on the line is a chance to pray…doing dishes is an opportunity for meditation…weeding the garden is time to bask in the sun….
And shucking peas is a chance to breathe deeply and enjoy…..
Who knew there could be such wisdom in peas?
I didn’t get around to planting a garden this year. You are making me miss having one so much! I have never had to shuck peas though. My kids always eat them as soon as they are ready. Actually, most of my veggies don’t make it into the house. The kids eat it all straight out of the garden! Great way to get them to eat their veggies!
Wonderful! What a sweet reminder to breathe and relax and to just enjoy the bounty that God has provided!
Thanks for sharing
I love this post; very relatable. I need to make a conscious effort to remember to slow down and breathe – what a great insight to look at chores as an opportunity to meditate! I don’t think the wisdom came from the peas