As each season comes to a close we take a few moments to reflect in this space. To think about the things we’ve learned, big and small, and to enjoy the moment to pause.
Walking
I don’t walk for my physical health. Sure, it started out that way. I wanted to see that number on the scale go down. The truth is, however, that I’ve never liked physical exercise. Give me a book or a board game, please and thank you.
What started as a desire to be healthier has shifted from physical health to mental health.
When I think about the hereditary nature of mental health issues, and even just watching my own brother and his struggles, I see the importance of taking care of my mental self.
We were never meant to sit in front of a screen and be plugged in all day, every day. So, I unplug from all the things and get outside to walk. And my soul is thankful.
Connection
We were meant for many things beyond the screen, and one of them (that I often seek on screen) is connection. Like walking, this is another thing that doesn’t come easy. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing.
I’m learning the value of connection. I’m learning that being connected matters. I’m learning that doing it wrong and doing it messy and doing it scared matters far less than the fact that I’m doing it.
You can go deep and look at all of the resources out there (I loved this book and I want to read this one) or you can just step out and ask someone to coffee.
In my mind I would make connection this big, grand thing, but in reality it can be the simplest connection that makes all the difference.
The last two things were pretty deep, right? We’ll keep the rest a bit lighter! Each of these teach me about how to enjoy life, try things, and be who I am.
Choices
I have a big birthday next month. I was dreading it, but I’m starting to look forward to celebrating.
No one will choose celebration over dread for me. I need to choose for myself.
Homemade
I can make my favorite coffee house drink at home. Sure, sometimes it’s nice to head out and get a treat. But if I get this and some lemonade, I’m golden! (Check out the simple recipe!)
What's your favorite summer drink? Check out mine… Share on XTaking time, even a few minutes, to reflect on what you’ve learned in this season is good for the soul. What’s one thing you learned this spring?
Grateful to connect with the inspiration for these posts each season, Emily Freeman.
Check out these great sites I’m linking up with: Literacy Musing Mondays, Purposeful Faith, Tea & Word Tuesday, Abounding Grace, Tell His Story, Porch Stories, Let’s Have Coffee, Worth Beyond Rubies, Moments of Hope, Tune in Thursday, Dance with Jesus, Fresh Market Friday, Faith ‘n Friends, Blogger Voices Network, Grace & Truth, Heart Encouragement
That things that are worthwhile can take time – lots of time. laurensparks.net
They sure can! Grateful for God’s timing all along the way!
Love this seasonal reflection, and I’m living my way into some pretty amazing truth about God and his open handed love that widens my boundaries in a way that is surprising me all the time.
Oh, Michele, your way with words always makes me smile. Poetic and thoughtful, thank you for sharing them!
Rebecca, I love your end of the month reflections … am totally resonating what you’ve said about walking being so necessary for body, brain health, and soul. After a long cold damp winter, spring has finally arrived here at the Cape and I am just loving being outside and stretching my legs again, breathing deep, taking in the sights, moving instead of sitting.
Your photos are fabulous …
;-}
Hey friend, Just south on I-95 a few hours from you, and spring is here — I think. But yesterday and today are chilly and overcast. But those make some of the best walking days!
Thank you for sharing the things you learned this spring, Rebecca! Choosing celebration over dread is a good decision. Hope your birthday is a happy day! Now all you need to do is find someone to walk with (sometimes) and your connection and walking can both be accomplished at the same time! 🙂 I love to run with friends at times, but I still need my alone time for mental health reasons.
Yes! I find it is such a great way to connect. And you are absolutely right about balance. I find I need that silent space for myself and God sometimes. Other times it’s the perfect way to connect with people!
Rebecca, Happy milestone Birthday early!!! 🙂 You’re going to be just fine! I love this post! Pinned. Walking is such a good way to clear my mind. I need to do more of that. Thanks for the reminder. Thank you for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
Thanks Patsy! I’m excited to see all God has!
What a wonderful list – and apparently a very inspired spring! I am trying (and retrying) to embrace walking. To walk for more than the hope of shedding a few pounds. And I am right there with you opting, more and more, for homemade! Whether a fancy coffee, a sweet treat or a whole meal – it just tastes better!! Here’s to a summer that is just a profitable:)
So glad to know I’m in such good company on the journey!
I love how each season, both on the calendar and in my life, brings precious lessons which help my roots to grow more deeply in Him. Blessings on your milestone birthday!
Thank you so much friend! There is something so special about seasons and how we grow in the Lord!
Yes–> “No one will choose celebration over dread for me. I need to choose for myself.” I hope your milestone birthday will bring you much celebration! I never struggled with my age number until I hit 50; it just sounded so old. But it is what it is. 🙂 Wonderful things happen in each decade and there are always reasons to celebrate.
Yes! It’s all about celebrating the seasons (or years or decades). So grateful for that reminder!
I love this! Our youngest joined the Army and I’ve been battling several physical problems, so I’m learning to let go. Of control. Of expectations. Of productivity. I’m learning to let God and wait patiently, to trust God in the fray.
Thank you for your beautiful post!
Thank you Kim. You’re so sweet. Letting go doesn’t come easily to me either. I found Jennifer Dukes Lee’s book It’s All Under Control very helpful! And as hard as it must be I am grateful for your family, that your son is serving for each and every one of us!
I love walking too Rebecca! Both for my mental health & it helps the chronic pain associated with Fibromyalgia.
Getting out to connect with other women of faith is important to me & it is not only great for my spiritual health but my mental health as well! 😀
Remember you’re always welcome to join me in a cuppa,
Bless you,
Jennifer
Isn’t it amazing what a difference a walk and some connection can make?!
Sweet insights and post – I’m joining you from Emily’s link up. Several of your previous posts caught my eye as well. Blessings.
Thanks Sandra! So glad you’re here!