Resting and Reflecting

by Sr. Roselynn Humbert

Christmas is long over. The weather is cold and wet. What do we reflect on when we stop and listen?  I have been looking at this time as a sort of hibernation. Sometimes we need to just slow down and take the time to rest and refresh.  Day to day activities continue but the sense of urgency that leads to rushing diminishes.  I may be one of the few that can afford to do this, but I know this is the time that many take a trip to the warmer climates for a change of pace and place. There is a wisdom in this. When I was younger I could not understand why someone would travel to the same place all the time.  Now I appreciate the comfort of familiar surroundings and reliable activities.

Time to reflect is also a part of this “hibernation.”  Reading and discussing ideas with friends can lead to new insights about the meaning of life. We can be more open to the nudges God may be sending through the quiet and the rest. Taking time to be grateful for the blessings we have received, looking for ways to pay it forward, and spending time in prayer are activities we may be doing daily. A time of rest can help us deepen these experiences.

Sometime we may find there are areas of our lives that need healing.  Healing is usually not a speedy process. I think of a friend who spent many weeks healing this winter.  You may be experiencing the need for physical or spiritual healing. Reaching out and looking inward may take time and energy. This time of slowing down may be what we need to make changes or just sit with the silence and allow ourselves to heal.

It could be that this time of year is not the best for you to rest and slow down. That does not mean you do not need to plan for it. Find a time for yourself to allow your body and spirit to rest. You will find it fruitful.