“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10
What does “back to the basics” mean? In teaching, the basics would be “reading, writing, and ‘rithmetic!” In maintaining a home, the basics might involve cooking, cleaning, and raising children. It seems as though the whole world has been thrust into circumstances where getting back to the basics is quickly becoming a way of life once again! I feel like I am in a situational “back to the basics.”
Some of my “back to the basics” discoveries include the following.
- Homecooked meals
- Curling up on the sofa with a good book
- Quiet devotional time with God
- Quality time with family members
- Leisurely walks
- Gardening
- Writing letters and cards
I have found that during this quarantine I have gained something very valuable that I didn’t even know I had lost. I discovered how to slow down and focus on the things that were really important to me. I didn’t realize that even as a retiree I was caught up in the busyness of life. I still had appointments, obligations, and personal plans that kept me occupied, and I didn’t realize that I was missing out on some of the joys that were right there in front of me!
I have never been accused of being “on the go,” but I know this time of social isolation has actually slowed me down a little bit more than usual. In fact, it has slowed me down enough to notice a change in my thinking and behavior. I find that during these times, I am actually “stopping and smelling the roses” without the mindset that I need to hurry up because there are other “more important things” that I need to do. (Yes, even retired people have to-do lists!) Since I cannot go to the stores, the gym, restaurants, or even the library, I have rediscovered the “basics” that are important to me.
My basics are not that much different than my “pre-isolation” activities, but I find that now I take more time with them which increases their quality. I have rediscovered the pleasure of the basics because I am not just checking them of my mental list of “to-dos,” but I am focused on the activities and savoring the experiences. I am doing these things because I want to, not because I have to! Big difference for me.
I’ve played board games with my grandchildren, cooked more meals in my kitchen than I’ve done in a long time, written actual cards and letters (instead of texting or email), read several books just for fun, rediscovered the value of quiet time with the Lord, listened to the birds singing in the morning as I walked… It’s all been amazing and illuminating! So, I am grateful that God has used this time of quarantine to open my eyes so I could see!
Open my eyes, that I may see glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free.
Open my mind, that I may read more of Thy love in word and deed;
What shall I fear while yet Thou dost lead? Only for light from Thee I plead.
Open my mouth, and let me bear, gladly the warm truth everywhere;
Open my heart and let me prepare love with Thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for Thee, ready my God, Thy will to see,
Open my mind, illumine me, Spirit divine!
(from “Open My Eyes” by Clara H. Scott)
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
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Take time today to appreciate and enjoy this time in your life!