Rest !

. . . Rest . . .

"We need to change our paradigm by giving more value to the sacredness of rest. If we begin by seeing it as a part of our design, apart of our spiritual DNA, we will feel more permission to enter into it and cease running." 
              - Kim Thomas (Author of "Even God Rested") 


What I'm finding is that rest is truly an art and not simply the absence of doing work. So much of rest is heavily weighed on our emotional responses to life, which is heavily steered by our thoughts and personality. Rest is apart of our spiritual DNA and is a worth while the investment for our spirits.

It's funny how things like doing dishes, jogging in the brisk cold air, watching the birds squabble at each other or even editing photos are therapy for me. The act in and of itself doesn't seem outwardly like therapy, but the way my spirit reacts to doing these things gives me so much life inside and even peace. With that said I no longer believe that rest always looks like that vacation to the beach (although the beach is definitely a favorite of mine). Different things in life speak to different people.

My dad, for instance, finds driving his car VERY fast, stress relieving. My brother enjoys watching the WHOLE season of Scrubs, watching a few before bed each night. These things by no means relax me at all or speak peace to my inner self.

We are all so different and so unique why would we all find rest the same? The last year or so I have been on a journey to find these things that refresh and reignite life in me and I'm finding that even though I am a people person I really do enjoy the quietness of a still empty house. As hard as it is for me to sit still, the stillness rejuvenates my spirit like a cool breeze and I can actually feel whats going on inside. Peace. If you feel ADD most of the time, stillness may be your best friend.

One last thought, a lot of true rest I believe, includes letting go of all the clutter in our minds/souls. The worries and fears that nag, or the To Do's that push, or people who pull on you... I'm learning to let them go. My best friend, Jesus, takes it all for me and reminds me of what is needed for each day. Giving things to the Lord in verbal prayer has been quite a release.

"You take off my heavy boots and You wear them for me." 
                     - Chloe Leavers  (Singer/Song Writer - "Heavy Boots")

More to come on rest...

News flash!
A new 2013 challenge is to post 1 blog entry each week! I'm excited to try this out and see what becomes of it. I welcome you to view and comment along the way!!