When we finally give ourselves permission to pause—to set down what we are carrying for a while, to name our weariness, our just-barely-surviving energy—it can be difficult. It might not feel like what we imagined rest might. All that we have been keeping at bay in the process of keeping it all going can suddenly crash in on us. When we stop, letting things we have carried for so long fall to the earth, our first response may be some collapsing, falling to the ground right along with it. Perhaps we find that we need some quite literal rest for our bodies and souls, and sleep comes for us as we let ourselves be held.

Let yourself be drawn toward the warmth of whatever light you are noticing in these winter days. Cozy up in your den or take slow walks in the moonlight. Whatever you find yourself longing for in this season that makes space for pause, rest, hibernation. Welcome what comes, even if there are surprising (or fearsome) visitors. Let yourself be sustained and held by something other than your own effort. What do you find there? What requires gentleness to even begin to unfold?

~a.c.m.

I’ve promised myself so here I go…

inquiry for today~ what promises will you keep?

nourishing care…..

Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind.

Be led by the dreams in your heart.

~Roy T. Bennett