Balance. Some common definitions of balance from the dictionary, or I should say from a Google search, are:
- Noun: An even distribution of weight enabling something or someone to remain upright and steady; a condition in which different elements are in the correct proportions.
- Verb: Keep or put (something) in a steady position so that it doesn’t fall.
There are many things we “balance” in our lives. Our work and our play. Our relationships with family and friends. Our time spent with others and our time spent alone. Our times of hanging on and our times of letting go. When all of these things are “in balance,” our lives are good and full and meaningful. When they are not, feelings of anxiety and stress seem to rule the day.
In just a few days, I will be taking a two-week vacation to provide some balance in my life. I will be spending time with my family and friends and hanging out in Duluth soaking up the warmth and waters of Superior. However, the first few days I am staying in a hermitage at the ARC Retreat Center, which will be an adventure!
When I called to make the reservation, the woman told me I would have a very small cottage in the woods and three healthy, delicious meals a day. She also told me I would not have cell phone coverage or Internet connections or running water!
Hmmm. Just so you know, the lack of running water was almost a deal breaker, but I decided to say yes. I have already packed my journal, a few of my treasured books and comfortable clothes. I intend to bask in the quiet and beauty of the woods for a time.
In the Bible, we hear how Jesus modeled balance for us. There are many times he would go away from the crowds and even his friends. In Luke 5:16, we hear that “Jesus withdrew to the wilderness and prayed.” Other translations say, “Jesus would often go to some place where he could be alone and pray,” and, “As often as possible, Jesus withdrew to out-of-the-way places for prayer.”
Summer is a great time for us to help create balance in our lives by giving us the space and time to do things for ourselves that often get neglected. It might be time alone in the woods, or time with friends walking the Superior Hiking Trail. It might be an afternoon in the garden or a barbecue dinner with family at the cabin. Whatever it is that nourishes your soul, those are the things to choose in this season.
Whatever it is that nourishes your soul, those are the things to choose.
Peace and joy,
Cindy