I have sat here for weeks trying to form dictionary words to convey the thoughts rolling through my soul. I’ve written disconnected and run-on sentences. I’ve deleted and began again.
I come back here now, to finish what I’ve been trying to ink out for weeks. I spent two hours laboring over the words and message. I hit send and prayed it all made sense. The screen went blank. Totally white — and my message was no where to be found. No where.
When your heart goes blank.
I want to be aggravated at the scenario, but I’m not. I feel like I need to pound the keyboard, but I can’t. I thought I’d recreate the message that I’ve labored over, but I don’t have it in me. I’m just numb.
Much like what my heart feels these days. Blank.
This is not a discontented place. It’s not even a frustrating loop on my journey, it’s just a moment in time where I have no words. I want to pour out and give you all I’ve got — I do — but my soul is screaming for rest.
So, I’m intentionally slowing down. Maybe you need to too? This is what I’m learning — sunshine, quiet, and laughter are the perfect concoction for refreshment. [tweet that]
Here are three ways to refresh your soul:
1. Get outside.
God’s medicine is sunshine. Intentionally make time to get to the beach, park, or even your back yard. Look around. Soak in every color, scent, and sound you here. Just sit or lay there and breathe in fresh air. It’s a natural boost of refreshment. I’ll intentionally be spending more time at the beach. (my favorite get-refreshed spot!) What’s yours?
2. Read a good book.
Read for fun and get lost in the words. Take time to read those books, blogs, or magazines you’ve not had time for. I’ve got a couple lined up and I can’t wait to dig in. Other’s words and stories take us to another place where our minds can find solace. Our souls are renewed in the quiet.
Books that have refreshed me —
Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
Crossing the Waters by Leslie Leyland Fields
The Broken Way by Ann Voskamp
The In-Between by Jeff Goins
3. Spend time with family and friends.
For months I’ve rushed from one gathering to the next. That is not restful — it is stressful. You never feel like you are in the moment as you are mentally preparing where you need to be next. Slow down and enjoy this moment. It’s all we’re guaranteed. Family, friends, and laughter. That’s perfect refreshment.
The soul needs to breath.
After an awesome gymnastic like Spring with traveling, speaking, and teaching I’m reining in my schedule for a time. I’ll be spending extra moments at the beach reflecting and soaking up the sunshine that refuels my soul. I will be getting renewed for an awesome Fall with great opportunities for you.
Have you ever had a crazy season that left you speechless — without words?
How did you recover?