Create space

It's the last Friday of September. Most of my musings this month have been focused on transitions, routines, and rhythms. 

I want to leave you with one final thought as we officially shift from summer to fall, and that is to create space.

Life continues to show me that no matter how busy, chaotic, or uncertain things get, space is not only critical, it's also simple to create. Creating space can feel hard, but it actually isn't. 

For example, I went to son's swim meet last night, solo. My husband was across town at Blake's baseball game and Cate was at gymnastics. I was, for lack of a better word, exhausted. Which has been a regular state of being for me this month. 

I sat on the hill, alone, because there was no where else to sit. The few people that I know were involved in their own groups and conversations. It was fine, because, again, I was exhausted. 

Near the end of the meet, the sun went down, the temperature dropped, and a cozy fall chill filled the air. Like magic, the fog in my brain cleared. The overwhelm evaporated. I'd accidentally created space. 

One of the ways I intentionally create space is my morning coffee ritual. I wake up, make a cup of coffee, sit on the sofa in my office, and light a candle. I sit for 10-15 minutes max and drink my coffee by candlelight in the dark. I don't force myself to meditate or pray. I just let my mind ask its questions and think its thoughts, and I observe them. Sometimes, a thought eventually crosses my mind that feels wise and true. Sometimes, an honest prayer rises up. 

This is my time to answer my own questions and give myself the comfort and care that I need to move forward. 

This is how I communicate with God. This is how I listen to my own heart and soul. This is how my mind cuts through the clutter. 

Create space. 

How are you doing this week?