When you randomly notice a topic no less than 5 times in about 3 weeks, I think it’s time to pay attention! Let me just say, message received. In this era of digital distraction and the “side-hustle,” the words “stillness” and “silence” are not ones that are discussed very often. However, I have come across a video, two books, and two articles recently that discuss the importance of these exact subjects.
I don’t know about you, but it seems that I constantly need to be making more money, juggling more responsibilities at my full-time job, spending more time with my girls, cleaning my house more often, volunteering more, etc. I thrive on having some unscheduled time, but that is harder to come by these days as I’m building my social media management business (that I love) which takes effort, planning, and lots of brain power. I’m definitely feeling the pressure to stretch myself as thin as possible in this season of my life, but I’m worried about the costs to my health, spiritual life, family, and overall well-being.
Although I’m currently tempted to take on a part-time job to gain more experience and to quickly grow my client roster, I know that realistically that just won’t work right now. I think God is reaffirming this by knocking me over the head with some insightful content. I’m listening, Lord!
If you think this is something you can relate to, check out the following resources I’ve come across recently:
- Fr. Mike Schmitz keeps it real while discussing the topic of silence in this video from Ascension Press. Could it be that silence is essential for creativity?
Demonstrate your trust in Me by sitting quietly in My Presence. Put aside all that is waiting to be done, and refuse to worry about anything. This sacred time together strengthens you and prepares you to face whatever the day will bring. By waiting with Me before you begin the day’s activities, you proclaim the reality of My living Presence…. When you spend time with Me, I restore your sense of direction. As you look to Me for guidance, I enable you to do less but accomplish more. (August 29)
- The Practice of Stillness by Michael Hyatt
- The Ignatian Adventure: Experiencing the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius in Daily Life by Fr. Kevin O’Brien, SJ
- 6 Reasons You Seriously Need to Slow Down by Frank Powell
See what I mean about being hit over the head with stillness and silence?! I’m not quite sure how all of this contemplation will fit in with growing a business, but I do plan on diving into The Ignatian Adventure book over the next several weeks and months. It will be interesting to see what fruit will come from this time. I know I won’t regret it!
What does re-charging daily look like for you?