I slept until 10:30 this morning and (I”ll admit it) it is 11:30 and I am writing this from bed. Martin, who left at 7 a.m. to help his father with something, got back about an hour ago and is fast asleep (and snoring) next to me. The sun is shining through the curtains of the bedroom, hinting that it is a beautiful day but I have yet to see it — which feels like a rare and luxurious gift. I’m sure we’ll get the day started soon…go get a bite to eat, pick up Ian from his grandmother’s house and do a little this or that before Martin’s gig tonight. But the most important thing on the agenda for today is getting some rest.
It has been a long few months. Hell, it has been a long few years. Through it, I have learned the value of taking time to rest – mind, body and spirit. Unfortunately, the discipline of living that value is a real challenge for me. I know I am not unique in this. Slowing down and living simply is the Everest of our fast-paced, high-achieving culture. But it is a mountain I am committed to climb.
When I stepped out of my career six years ago, it was one of the best (and seemingly craziest) decisions I have ever made. Walking away from the VP title and the cache that came with it, I was able to see that work, success and achievement could be a drug for me. And, like any good addict, I am prone to overdo.
Over the past two years I’ve slowly begun to return to work as a writer, a teacher and now a public speaker. My offer to teach was contingent on entering a PhD program, so I am also a student. I love this work and my studies and I am grateful to have all of these wonderful opportunties in this very challenging economy. But, as my plate becomes increasingly full, I can see some good news and some bad news about where I stand when it comes to work:
The good news: the motivation for money, prestige and accolades has been replaced with a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
The bad news: I am as driven and able to be enveloped in work as I ever was.
As new and wonderful doors open I pray that I will only walk through the ones that God opens for me. That said, I can’t help but wonder: is it possible to pursue our passions while maintaining a balanced, simple life?
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