My body, my heart, mind, and physical being is tired. It is as if I have reached one milestone, knowing that I need rest and comfort before I move forward to another. Life reminds me that I need to rest fully and completely if I want to be restored. It is easy to focus on the physical. One’s body has a very loud voice in the matter. What happens in this break calls for rest, comfort, and healing.
Rest and comfort are more than indulgences. They are intentional acts that give Life permission to restore the heart, soul, mind, and physical well-being. I like to kick this off with quiet time and comfort food. Slow-cooked grits, soft scrambled eggs, and fried vegetarian sausages always bring me to a place of safety. I hear the voices of my mother, aunt, and others, bringing a sense of belonging, safety, and hope. I am reminded of what it feels like to belong, to be unconditionally accepted as I am.
Guilt has no place in the discussion. My father often struggled to rest. Vacations were a luxury for someone else. I continue to learn from this. Everyone needs rest. Remember, “Somewhere it’s written, ‘God rested the seventh day, having completed his work.’” (Hebrews 4.4). In my journey, I remind myself that my answer to guilt will be found in acting and being in a way and place that opens the door to restoration and recreation within. Celebration takes the place of the negative. Hope is embraced. Healing follows.
Relationships are involved. I believe that every individual thrives better in a positive community of caring relationships. Some are denied that opportunity. Often for reasons that they did not choose. Life likes to whisper reminders that in sharing beauty, discovering wonder, and experiencing love with another, we find rest, comfort, and a desire to live more.
Being intentional is a good idea. I have pushed myself to a wall more than once. At that point, my body takes over. I am forced to sleep. I will stop what I am doing. Acting before it is mandatory is healthy living.
