Getting Ready

Getting Ready
It’s coming; can you feel it? The colder air with its crisp freshness, the changing seasons coupled with the allure of something new, and a longing to go within to take inventory of what is rustling around within us. When the exterior world is warm and buzzing, that is where our attention lands. The focus is outside of us.

Even with the majority lamenting about the constant running, multiplying to-do lists, and mounting obligations, we just cannot seem to break free as our priorities are deposited in the tumultuous upheavals that have mind-numbingly become our daily status quo. Sitting idle seems ludicrous, counterintuitive, and like a selfish luxury we cannot afford. However, self-care is very important. When we neglect ourselves, we hurt ourselves. It’s a simple equation.

Racing and always fretting about the next external commitment leaves us perpetually locked in the future, which wipes out the present. Most folks could use a lesson in mindfulness, which keeps one attentive in the here and now. The present is all there really is. Feel your body, notice your breath, sit knowing that all is well right now in this moment, and stay with that energy. Jesus continually offered everyone His Peace, as it leads to a place of calmness, clarity, and well-being. Peace is the gateway to healing.

With Mother Earth yawning to hibernate, maybe we should do the same. Get quiet, contemplative, introspective, and in-touch with emotions that may upset or scare us. It’s okay. These feelings only want to be “heard.” Acknowledge them, and sit with their energy. It may only be for a few moments, and some tears may roll, allowing acceptance, purging, and healing. We choke down these negative emotions, and hope they stay buried or disassembled, but they are only hidden or temporarily lost from our consciousness as they rattle within for attention like a ripe volcano about to erupt. Their goal is not to hurt or upset you, but rather to free you from the shame, fear, guilt, and rejection that surrounds them.

Jesus offers you His Peace – take it. Reach out, grasp it, and don’t let go. How are you getting ready? Jesus is waiting.