Unplug

A few weeks ago, my husband and I went on a mini-holiday. It was so lovely to get away from the city.  We spent a few days in a beautiful location, with perfect, sunny weather and we added a little something extra.

We decided to 'unplug' while we were away. No phone or TV, not even internet (though the place had WIFI).

I was amazed at how easy and liberating it was to unplug. It wasn't until Monday, when I went on-line, that I really noticed how much I had enjoyed being free.

What did we do to stay busy? We read books, and went for a hike, swam in the pool, sipped fine wines, had some terrific conversations, explored a farmer's market, ate delicious meals, met interesting people, and most importantly we both really relaxed.

I encourage you to unplug this weekend. Whether it's for an hour, a day or the whole weekend. Notice how it feels to unplug from the immediacy of email and smart phones.  Give yourself a break from instant and repetitive news for one day.  Notice the time you have then, to do other things – or maybe do absolutely nothing. Liberating, isn't it?

With the amazing technology we have access to today, we need to remember that it's still our choice when we use it.

It is still a beautiful world

This inspiring poem was sent to me this morning and I wanted to share it with you.  Each time I read it, I discover something new that moves and comforts me.  Even though it was written many years ago, like other classics, the message is never out of date.

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann, Copyright 1952