The Gift of Pause

We have been given the gift of a sacred pause. Now is the time for us to choose how we will respond to this time for reflection. Will we tune in to ourselves and our family members, or will we continue to ignore or push away the feelings we are afraid to feel?

As it is right now, our jobs are safe. We may be on a hiatus or teaching online, but we can find relief in that we are still earning income. Others in our country are not so lucky. So what is the work of this time at home? That is up to us to decide.  

How can we come into awareness? Here are some ideas:

• Take time to journal every day. Let it be a stream of consciousness, including your fears, joys, and insights. You may find clarity in your ramblings. 
• View this time as a "new beginning." What about this time with yourself and your family can you take forward with you? When things go "back to normal," are there aspects of your life you want to change permanently? Examine all aspects of our American culture. In what ways can we live better?
• When you feel overwhelmed with negative thoughts and/or annoying children, take time to calm down your nervous system. Breathe deeply with the exhale longer than the inhale.  
• Do any of your relationships in your home require a "reset?" What does that look like for you as well as for the other? What could be the first step to take in improving this relationship?

How are you taking advantage of this gift of pause?