Definition of Pause: A break, stop, or rest, often for a calculated purpose or effect
In the days before winter break, there is a feeling of pushing ourselves at the end of a long run. We know it is not really the end, just the end of one leg, and so we are also looking ahead to how we will start the next leg of the race with new energies. The rhythm of stepping out of the routine every so often helps to break bad habits and ruts we have fallen into from the fall. We say: I am going to do better next semester. I am going to be organized. I am going to be more efficient, more patient, more creative. I will read more or collaborate more.
So we pause for a calculated purpose. We know we need a break. My friend Jen and I promised to talk over break and discipline ourselves not to talk about school–we’ll see if we even feel like we can take the chance of talking.
Today, I paused to enjoy the snow, the friendliness of strangers, focused on discrete tasks in the moment rather than long term challenges. I made 6 different kinds of sweets.
I am sure that I am not only being indulgent by focusing on in the moment tasks and small encounters with friends and strangers during this winter pause. There is a calculated purpose and effect to change my perspective, let my heart fill back up with courage again, to think about life with renewed hopefulness.
What do I hope I will do differently in the new year? What do you hope?