Be Still

My days begin very early. As I backed out of my home, I looked up and saw the beautiful, colorful sunrise. It was stunning. I noticed three women down the street gazing at the sky in silence.

Over the past two weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet several new people from all over the world, all walks of life, multigenerational. I have duly noted one interesting fact. When I make true eye contact and listen, the connection begins. A simple gesture and practice, but a powerful one.

I met with a friend recently and it was through genuine eye contact and few words that she was able to let her guard down and share her struggles. As I interact with my children I have a rule for myself to ignore my phone and refuse to multi-task. Every moment with them is precious, tasks can wait.

It is very easy for me to get pulled into a completely task driven way of life. My job, my coaching, my volunteer work and my education all require actions and tasks. It is reality. I have learned through seasons of rest and seasons of extreme busyness that my heart can remain at peace, if I practice this art of stillness and listening.

Last Saturday, I was particularly tired and anxious. I suddenly realized I had needed to stop and tune in to my whole self, spirit, soul and body. I needed to be still. I then adjusted my daily plan to care for myself. By the end of the day, I felt refreshed, thankful and rested. It was a practice of self-awareness that helped me thrive that day. It was the same practice of listening and connecting I did with my friend and my kids, but the focus was my relationship with me. This enabled me to create balance and live in a giving and receiving patten of life.

This week, I begin my days in stillness. I listen first to my Creator, then to my heart and soul, then I venture out into our world of people hungering to be noticed, longing for a listening ear, and while I am doing my tasks, I am open and able to making true connections.

Be still and know that I am God.

Psalm 46:10