Thanksgiving this year seem to be both hurling at a comet speed and moving like molasses. My heart is feeling especially tender this year as I reflect on the goodness my life holds. I find myself simultaneously wanting to do two things. Hold people close and yet burrow away preferably in the woods or by the fire reading a book. Intentionally, taking moments to breathe. Finding things to delight in, and flat out putting one foot in front of the other in order not to feel overwhelmed. I’m a visionary AND a doer. Recently, I discovered I like to fix things…unless its junk then I throw them out. But the hardest lesson this year I’ve learned it I can’t fix people or situations. Sometimes as much as I want to offer advice it’s better not to be involved. Its been an intentional time of seeking the Holy Spirit of what to do and say. What surprised me the most? The freedom of weight and burden.
In my last post Make Space, I mentioned time outside. That was intentional time. Time where I was to clear my mind and just be. It was hard. I hadn’t realized the last four years always being on repeat or how unchecked my imaginary conversations were. So the Holy Spirit told me to go outside and sit. He gifted me a white chair that someone was throwing away. I’d sit with my coffee in hand battling for the quiet spaces. It took four months. For someone who used to master just being, I was a long ways from home. Yet in this process I learned something dear to me.
The Holy Spirit is patient with me, and He is with you.
Eventually, I got there. My hour shortened to 45 minutes. From 30 minutes to 20. Saving for hard weeks I can get my mind to be quiet in 15 minutes and simply enjoy Him. That’s what a relationship is, it is the companionable delighting of savoring the gift of someone. To know them not from what others say, but by spending time with them. I still have my hard days, but I am recognizing this time as a gift.
Two weeks ago I kept with my routines even though it was go go go. Simply being, writing, and then reading the Bible set within me steadiness. Last week I did not keep with my routine. I noticed a difference. Which is why this week I’m getting back to be intentional in my routines. Not because I have to, but because I like who I am when I do them. I like the preciousness of my Father’s presence when He is invited first in my mornings. The method flexible, the goal set in stone- intentionally being mindful of Him.
Tending to heart by ways of thanksgiving and praise keeps eyes on Father. It also keeps the tongue from giving credit what shouldn’t be. Thanksgiving also fills the mind and helps discover delight leaving little room. Imagination by way of thanksgiving fills the senses in the beautiful ways creating contentment.
What are some things that you are intentionally cultivating thanksgiving?