Place Time and Energy Wisely

"I want to be able to live without a crowded calendar.

I want to be able to read a book without feeling guilty,

or to go to a concert when I like."

Golda Meir

While visiting, a friend complained of being exhausted, not having time for herself, and plainly worn out.  I glanced at her calendar and was surprised to see every day spoken for and some nights as well. She continued to tell me how she wished she could unload the mess, but expected her lovely self to be responsible and accountable.

When we are wanting to withdraw from activities, but feel others will be angry or someone else will get stuck with all of the work, we need to shift our thinking.  We must be accountable for ourselves.  If the situation no longer inspires us, we are called to honor our self first.  By stepping down from a position, we are opening a space for someone else to experience what we have done and bring new ideas to enhance the group.

As our children become adults or as we retire, our personal time is finally returned to us.  Many make the mistake of quickly filling time slots.  The best decision, however, is to take some time to explore what it really is we want to do.  Where do we want to place our time and energy plus receive stimulation and accountability?  There will be so many options, we can take our time for wise decisions that still allow time for our lovely selves to just be.