Getting Back in the Saddle

Wow - it's really August 25th? But where did the 13th-24th go? It's kind of scary when you can hardly remember what you did the last week and a half. But I'm going to stop short of boring you with how busy I've been, because we're ALL busy, right? What I will do is remind myself, in writing, to s-l-o-o-o-w down.

The question becomes: how do you slow down when life is demanding that you sprint to the finish line, take a few short breaths, and then embark on a new race? For me, it's not that I mind being busy, what's troublesome is forgetting to experience each daily event without letting what I'm doing next cloud the scenery.

I don't have the answer, but there are a couple of things I like to do to help rein in my spirit when it starts to feel like a wild horse, bucking its way out of my reach:

1. Sip tea. I know, seems like a rather simple Rx, but think of it this way: tea is hot, so you can't rush drinking it! And it's kind of like chicken noodle soup - it's just good for the soul.

2. Watch the news. This might be backwards reasoning, but there are a slew of terrible things happening to people all over the world and that's enough to get me to stop and smell the roses - ok, I haven't smelled a rose in a while, but I did revel in a gorgeous sunset last week. Plus, when I'm informed, I feel connected, and when I feel connected, I feel like helping, and well, tell me the last time you helped someone and didn't instantly feel better. I'm pretty sure that's not a coincidence. ;)

3. I've already told you about my newfound interest in meditation. To be honest, though, I can't always find the time everyday (correction: I don't always MAKE the time). But on days when I can't, this incredible woman always helps me with my soul-searching. I had the chance to see her speak in person at the National CASA Conference, and I consider it one of the most uplifting speeches I've heard.

So there's my mini-self-help narrative. I've taken all of my advice and put it to use today - hopefully I'll have some saddle sores by the end of the week.