By Chris Kovatch

 

The days seem to rush by faster and faster as I have gotten older. A week used to feel like an eternity and now they are over in a blink of an eye. With everything we fill our days with, it is no surprise that it feels like we never rest, because in all actuality, we don’t. Why do we do this to ourselves? Is it an inherently bad thing?

This past weekend was a rush for us.

Christi and the girls were out of town at a dance competition. The boys and I were at home. We were also joined for the weekend by my adopted children’s younger brother.

I must say I was a bit concerned if I would be able to handle the addition of a little one in a new environment. I am happy to report that the weekend progressed quite smoothly and was enjoyable.

However, it was Sunday evening after the little one had returned home, and I was finishing up some yard work, that I was able to pause for a moment. As I stood in my yard looking at the results of my work and feeling the cool breeze, did I feel a sense of contentment hit me.

You see, I always must be doing something.

I feel like I am wasting time if I do not have some sort of activity planned or something to check off my ‘to do’ list.

However, at this moment all I wanted to do was to sit in my rocking chair and just enjoy the outdoors.

The kids were inside actually getting along and playing games. All I could hear was the breeze, the birds, and an occasional lawn mower. It was in that moment that I just felt happy. With everything that goes on in the world today, moments like this aren’t as common as they should be.

I do value these moments of contentment. I honestly wish they would be a bit more common in my life. I think that sometimes we just need to make ourselves hit the brakes and stop. We need to drop everything…even if it’s just for ten minutes and just breathe. I know the world would be a much better place if we could all become a happier people.

This week I urge you to take time and just sit outside (before the mosquitos take control of the evenings) and enjoy just doing nothing.

Listen and take in the beautiful area we live in. A little stress relief never hurt anyone.