Monotony of life. How does one overcome this? For me, I think I work harder. When I get bored, I start looking for several tasks to take on at one time. I get a thrill out of going-going-going. I don’t have time then to sit, ponder, be bored… I don’t have enough to do at work. I would say I have about half the amount of work I could do. This bothers me. Yet on the same note, it bothers me that it bothers me. (Hope you followed that!) I would say I am a stress-filled person, which perhaps means I don’t know how to relax. Not being busy, not having stress, is strange for me. How does one find the balance of relaxing in life yet working as hard as they feel they are meant to? I want to work hard, I want to stay busy, but in a healthy manner. Odd as it sounds, I think right now if I did have just a bit more work, I would feel peaceful. But everyone has to determine that for themselves.
I am learning to live with less, whether or not I like it. Since I like working, I have always had money on hand. With money around, I have never worried about if I could afford something. A little splurge here and there never bothered me much. Now that I am not receiving an income, but living as if I did, I can really feel myself changing. No more splurges, unless it’s a mocha/latte here and there (which is a big difference compared to clothing and dvds). I am becoming more satisfied with what I have. Realizing the clothes I have have a longer life span than I gave them credit for. Alongside this, realizing the fact I still have a lot more clothes than I really do need. Not allowing myself to go shopping has been a great change, realizing there are other fun things to do (I know it sounds silly, but shopping really can be addicting!). And getting rid of the need to fill every desire; do I REALLY need this? Use and reuse. Go without. Give away. Less of me, more of you Lord. This is a hard lesson to be learning, especially when I slip up on stupid things (like receiving parking tickets that eat out my wallet).
My house family, my community. This past Sunday night, each of my housemates ended up in the kitchen, eating a late dinner and chatting. Sunday has become our popcorn night, so someone will pop popcorn and it’ll be out for all to have. There is no rhyme or reason as to who makes it or when it’s made, it simply happens. The best part is we somehow all end up in the same room together, naturally enjoying each others’ company. I am so blessed by my housemates. And it makes me smile that even at a kitchen table, someone may be knitting, another cooking, another on a laptop, and another just chatting. Joy is in community.
By the way, it’s been snowing for three days. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so ready for the Christmas season! This season, remember to find a restful peace, contentment in what you already have, and joy in those who surround you. And after this Christmas season, I wish the same blessing for you.
