Slow like sleep leaving my body at the first slivers of morning light, the checks on my to-do list as I meander into projects, the s t e p s of my toddler exploring his small world on an evening walk, my thoughts when i see the pastel-painted sunset. Slow like steady, lasting love in my marriage, the first bite of cherry pie as tart, juicy berries + warm, sugary gelatin beckon you to linger for the flakey finish, the dissipation of anger from fighting against whatever season I'm in, my loosely held plans for an apricot-colored future.
Lately, I’ve been stewing on the word slow. Why and when did we as a culture get so wrapped up in the hustle that slow became unfavorable? Why do I rush myself to get things done but fail to notice the ordinary beauties unraveling before me? Why do I wish myself out of my current season only to layer on the guilt for wishing it away in the first place?
In a parenting book I read recently, the author mentioned that anxious children usually become anxious from being rushed1. It made my heart cringe because I’m guilty of being the rusher.
When I think about the times I’ve slowed down and quieted the need to rush, I can’t recall a time I’ve regretted it. I can take joy in the task at hand when the ticking clock is silenced. I can teach my oldest how to put on his socks + make sure his shoes are on the right foot when the press of time is released. I can feel satisfied knowing my work was thorough + intentional in most every aspect when I’m not racing to completion. I can savor the taste, the smell, or the creeping smile on my baby’s face during the present unfolding moment.
That’s the end of my short rambling.
Now tell me, what do you notice when you slow down? What does slow look like for you?
I don’t remember which book this came from, but when I do I’ll link it here.
Beautiful!! Slow looks like, not pushing my kids into afterschool activities or even the trip to the library I thought they wanted, because they say, “I just got home from a long day of school. I need some time to just... whatever.” Slow looks like, my long pause as I opened the blinds this morning to watch the gorgeous sunrise for a few moments.
Beautiful! I love the poem at the start of your reflection 💗