Avoid Being Numb
Do you ever consider the day in front of you and wonder if you have the mental energy for it all? I don't simply mean the physical schedules or demands, though that's always part of the anticipation, but rather do you have the mental focus to stay engaged? Wouldn't it be easier just to slip into a world of cat videos and have a few laughs?
Yet we know that's aiming low. Life is far too precious to play small.
Are you ready to be an active participant in your life?
Will you notice the hurting around you and engage in their struggles?Will you take the lows without complaining and the highs without pride?Will you stop procrastinating and initiate the steps you need to grow?Will you love unconditionally?Will you respect others with your attention and honor?
Are you ready to give grace to those who need it most? (even if it's you...)
I love reading Frederick Buechner and this idea is one which particularly slaps me upside the head:
“Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery it is. In the boredom and pain of it, no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of it, because in the last analysis all moments are key moments, and life itself is grace.”
The only way we recognize our moments as "key moments" is to be present in the pain and joy; to avoid anything which deadens our senses to what's in front of us, whether that's a substance or a screen.
Listen to your life today.