We Don’t Have To Hurry Today. Slow Down.

If you’ve ever read my bio on my blog, you’ve learned who I am and what makes me tick. One of the first few sentences in my bio is,

“I’m a pretty simple gal, who finds joy in unrushed mornings….”

Both statements are true… I am pretty simple, and I do find joy in unrushed mornings. I enjoy savoring my first sips of my freshly-brewed coffee. Spending time in my Bible and conversing with God help me start my day in a peaceful and fulfilling way. And fitting in a morning workout inspires me to make healthy choices throughout my day.

Taking my time brings me great joy in the early hours of the day.

I can’t say what triggered it, but this morning I became well-aware my mornings as of late have been anything but unrushed. As I was looking in the mirror, racing to get my makeup on, the woman looking back at me was stressed. She was making mental lists and checking them twice, trying to find ways to beat the clock. She only half-listened to her husband from around the corner, and instead of enjoying her coffee, she drank it as she applied her eye shadow.

I found myself in the middle of hurry. Again.

But you see, I had to hurry. I had to make it to church on time. I’m one who would rather not go than be late. I grabbed a yogurt and a granola bar, and out the door I flew.

As I drove with gravel dust flying behind me, I heard the words resound in my head,

“You don’t have to hurry today. Slow down.”

So, I did. In that very moment, it was as if a light turned on and it revealed to me just how the pace of hurry had become my pattern. How did I let myself slip into it again, and how could I have been so unaware of it happening? I know better. I’ve gone down this path before. I know full-well a life of hurry is not God’s best for me.

A life of rush is not a rhythm in which many of us thrive.

Including me. A life of rush wears me out and I miss many of God’s blessings.

I was so used to rushing, I struggled in these moments to relax. I consciously slowed by breathing and drove the speed limit. (When was the last time I did that??) I took my time, and noticed my surroundings. Surprisingly, I made to church on time and was blessed to soak in my friend, Tina’s, sermon. Afterwards, even though I again felt the pull to rush, I chose to take the scenic, and long route home.

Friend, could you benefit from a slow down? Has the rush of life overtaken your rhythm? Or has the pace of hurry become your pattern, too?

Let’s slow down together.

Let’s breathe deep, and live this moment unrushed. Soak in your surroundings, and notice the many blessings God has placed in your life. Let’s do it all over again until that becomes the beat that moves us. May we resist the tendency to rush.

What’s one thing you can do today, or this week stop the rush of life and slow down? I’d love to read your ideas and suggestions!

It’s a great day to slow down. I’m thankful we can do it together.

Blessings!

Julie