Spring is time to ‘savor the sweetness of doing nothing’

When was the last time you really rested? This might be an odd question to pose at the beginning of spring. But clergy of multiple traditions are finally emerging from one of the busiest times of year – the welcoming of spring, with all of its joy and celebration and the renewal of all that is good. Honestly, we are tired! You may be as well.

In a world that values busyness and overloaded planners, rest almost appears with an apologetic smile, a downward glance and an embarrassed whisper that seems to say, “Don't mind me.” And yet, wisdom supports the old ways and confirms what our ancestors knew – we rest to repair our minds, bodies and spirits. We rest to maintain focus, preserve and restore energy, and, oh yes, so we don't bite people's heads off because our spirits are overcome with acute crankiness. (Ask me how I know!)

The Native Americans knew that rest offered balance between our human nature and the land and Spirit. Richard Rohr, Franciscan Brother, referred to this as “right relationship,” and in the Christian tradition rest includes resting in the grace of God.

It's difficult to practice the Buddhist discipline of mindfulness when we are exhausted and our monkey minds, on steroids, take over. And the Hindu practice of Yoga encourages rest through the integration and surrendering of mind, body and spirit to our higher consciousness.

These are difficult days and rest is frequently perceived as weakness. Make no mistake – it is not. It is, in fact, a recovery of strength and the awareness to do so. It is powerful. The pressure of work, the economy and the challenges of orchestrating family life have us burning candles at both ends rather than at the close of day, in quiet and restful moments.

Our struggles with our health, our thought processes and our spiritual lives seem to be crying out and begging us to slow down, find the space, listen to the quiet and pause. My Italian culture has a phrase – dolce far niente – which translates into “the sweetness of doing nothing.” When was the last time you gave yourself permission to savor some of that sweetness? When was the last time you luxuriated in a real Sabbath?

Life is exhausting. We are exhausted. And we require a respite in order to live our lives to the fullest, with purpose, joy and balance. That means that in the midst of the craziness, we need to take a break. Breathe in the silence. Sometimes 15 minutes makes a big difference in calming the mind, resting the body and recharging the soul. Don't let the world steal your time and energy.

Join in with the clergy who are taking a break from services and sermons, coaching and counseling. If we are truly going be our best – for us and for those we serve and love – rest is essential. You are worth it! And, it's spring! Everything is about to blossom after a long rest – you should as well!!

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington provides spiritual coaching and sacred celebrations for people who honor multiple traditions. When this Interfaith Minister is not resting, she can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com for these and other sources of spiritual support.