So, out of that needs comes this blog, an attempt to keep myself accountable to the thoughts and attitudes that often rule my day. Each week I will post "exercises" that I will be doing to help calm my mind, defuse anger, release anxiety, and just give myself a moment of peace. I will be practicing "being"--practicing peace.
As a disclaimer, I don't believe that peace is something you can generate--and apart from authentic community with God, true peace will always be elusive no matter what you do. However, I do believe there are practices we can establish in our lives that will help us have receptive spirits to the peace God is daily offering us.
Here is your first exercise. Gaze at this photo. Imagine yourself stepping onto the dock and walking down to the edge of the pier. Slip off your sandals and sit down. Feel the warm 75 degree breeze tickle your skin and blow through your hair. Scan the horizon and watch the formation of clouds morph as the sun dips lower. The colors are ebbing, shifting from vibrant oranges to deep violets. Dare to skim your toes across the placid waters; the fluid is washing over your feet. Relax your shoulders, take a deep breath and sigh. Close your eyes and lean back on your hands, letting your head fall back. Smile to yourself, knowing that He is near, that He continues to love you and wants to bring you to these still waters.
This photo was taken in Australia by Mark Snelson.
