In the rush of life lately I have forgotten what peacefulness feels like. This morning I felt called to notice things that brought a sense of peace to my body. On our morning walk I noticed:
Someones porch, slightly shaded, adorned with hanging plants and a cozy looking bench. I could imagine myself reading up there.
The quiet of the coffee shop after the morning hustle.
The coolness of the tree covered bike path, the breeze, gentle, as we walked.
The freshness of my iced tea. Crimson berry; I am convinced it has healing properties. No, it does.
Watching my daughters meander down the bike path noticing every bird, stick, rock, and human walking by. They are the kids who stare at you, it’s okay, it is a look of wonder. One I am in awe of every day.
The gentleness of the older man, slowly strolling along the curb saying, “good morning”, in a raspy, worn voice.
The butterfly that stopped to join us on our walk, perching on top of the stroller, perhaps giving her wings a rest for a moment. Don’t we all need to give our wings a rest for a moment?
The innocent giggle of glee from my daughter as she settled into the swing.
The softness of my daughters hand as she climbed out of the stroller. The trust. The knowing. The familiarity.
The calm across the pond, still water. As if today, we have all called for stillness. Haven’t we?
The youth of the camp counselors supervising kids on the playground. It wasn’t long ago, I was one of them.
Two older women sitting on rocks at the waters edge deep in discussion. Connected, perhaps through decades. I can often see my future as well as my past wherever I am. It brings more peace now than it used to.
“Sometimes we must slow down the pace of our soul.” -ah
I am not sure why any of these things feel peaceful to me, but they do. They brought calm to my body and allowed me to take a breath. To slow down, if only for a moment. Sometimes all we need is a moment to catch up to ourselves. To become aware of what we have just gone through and to know that it is okay to take a pause. Take a beat. I needed to take a beat this morning. I likely need to take a few more. It is a practice. Peacefulness is a practice. I am working on it.
What feels like peace within your body? Brings peace to your spirit?
Be gentle.
Let’s rise,