STUDYING RAINDROPS

Singers Roger Miller and Bob Marley are both credited with the quote “Some people feel the rain; others just get wet.” Rainwater is powerful and sometimes feels destructive, but it is also essential to life. Have you ever stood at a window and watched a raindrop splat against the pane, and then gradually slide down the surface until it finally pool up or drips off? Such a process can be mesmerizing and can help us appreciate the rain rather than just trying not to get wet.

Rain can be scientifically explained, but it also can be seen, heard, felt, smelled, and tasted. Engaging rain with all our senses—even when it makes life difficult—helps us to be present to our life and appreciate the gift of water as powerful, essential, and precious.

CONSCIOUS CALENDARING

Today’s culture is obsessed with being busy. It has become a status symbol to frenetically overload our commitments and then complain about how hectic, overworked, and exhausting our lives are. As a result, we forget how to relax and be still. That leads to unnecessary stress and a loss of appreciation of each precious moment we are given.

Take time out to re-evaluate your calendar. Do you really need to do all those things? Do they bring you joy and contribute to your wellbeing? Or are they simply obligations you feel are required in order to keep up appearances or gain worth or status? You are valuable just for who you are. And human bodies need downtime for rest and renewal. Consider giving yourself the gift of rest this season.