Do you find yourself feeling guilty for taking time off and resting? I do! Whenever I pause and take a break, I feel convicted because there is a little voice reminding me of everything that needs my attention. In reality, nothing is so urgent that can’t wait until I am rested and rejuvenated. The past few months have been extremely busy for my family as we have been remodeling our house ourselves while working from home and homeschooling my girls. Needless to say, it has been a very busy season for us…a season of many changes. It has been exhausting. I am exhausted!
Last Saturday, I was finally able to take a break, to rest. I somehow, managed to sleep in until 10 am, which is something I have not done in a very long time. I was also able to take a nap later that afternoon, again, something I don’t get a chance to do. I didn’t even change out of my pajamas until it was time to leave the house for dinner plans. Although my rest felt amazing and so needed, I also felt guilty for taking so much time off. This little voice kept reminding me of how lazy I was being. So I said it out loud “I’m so lazy today” and instantly, my sweet husband jumped in with “I have known you for a long time, and you have been associated with so many words, but lazy has never been one of them. You deserve this rest so enjoy it.”
His words resonated with me that day and reminded me that it is okay to rest. It is okay to admit we are tired and in need of some time to rejuvenate and re-energize. Just because the world around us expects us to be at our best at all times, juggling everything we can possibly handle doesn’t mean we actually have to. It is acceptable to rest in the things you find satisfying for your well-being. As we embark on the holiday season that is bound to be stressful, sprinkled with COVID and its nuisance, take some time, kick back, and find your rest.
Life is about balancing. We don’t always have to be on move. It is well okay to take a break and rest. Fill your vessel so you can overflow onto others. You can’t serve your family and friends from an empty vessel.
Dear Ramina,
Thank you for your down to earth posts. You so described me in this one. I’m alot older than you and was the oldest of 5 girls and 1 boy. Now all in our 60s except for the youngest who is 59. So you know that generation was taught to work and no play till your work was done. I still struggle with guilt if I stop to rest. However, praise the Lord. I’m getting better at it.
I should say, I’m finally finding my rest.!!!
Thank you and God Bless.
Regards to your precious momma.