This past Saturday morning, I spent about 2 hours staring out my front window drinking coffee. I had the local NPR station on lightly in the background playing beautiful acoustic music that I had never heard before, and I just sat there…being. I was in the moment; I was not in a hurry to get anywhere or get anything done, but rather I was just being a guy with his thoughts, a cup of coffee and the world outside his window. And it was the best 2 hours I have spent in quite some time, as it gave me time to reflect on a few things that have been on my mind lately. As an example, here is one thing I spent some time on…
I have been thinking that I have been worried too much about what the inside of my house looks like when it’s only us here. No one is coming over, there are no TV hosts about to burst into my living room, and there is no one to impress. So why have I been so concerned with making sure everything is immaculate and put away? Is it a cover for something else? Is it a diversion from thinking about real life things? Or is it some sort of OCD that has been progressively getting worse as I get older? Don’t get me wrong – I am not talking about being organized or clutter-free, as I have always been like that. But lately I have found myself unable to even leave a pair of shoes by the door without being bothered by the fact that they are there. Is that really the best use of my mental energy, worrying about a pair of shoes?
What is important in my life – worrying about a pair of shoes by the door or spending time on something I truly love? Sometimes I find myself putting too much energy into the non-essentials while ignoring those things that make for a purposeful life. And sometimes, it takes a cup of coffee and a window to bring me back around. The important thing is that I took the time to do this…I didn’t try to busy myself with a magazine, a TV show or cleaning out under the sink. So if you are feeling overwhelmed by anything, try to take a few quiet minutes and focus on what is important and essential versus what is extraneous and irrelevant. You might be amazed at where you are spending your energy.
I can’t remember the last time I just sat with a drink and some music and did nothing. I am looking forward to doing that one the weather turns warmer. My husband and I just bought our first house in a quiet neighborhood, and it has a lovely front porch. I think we could all use a little quiet time.
Absolutely Kristen, it’s very important!