Embracing the Wide Open Spaces
I have a big idea brewing in my head, and I need time and space to let it percolate. It can be so easy to fill the quiet spaces with noise: blogging, reading blogs, checking e-mail, talking to friends, listening to music.
But there’s something to be said for intentionally giving yourself room to think. It’s like blocking out the distractions so you, the quarterback, have time to plan, strategize, and decide before getting buried.
I was hesitant to get an iPhone because I feared that constant connection to the internet would tempt me to blow useless carbon dioxide into every available crevice. When I’m waiting in a line or riding in a taxi, I have to gently remind myself, “Immerse yourself in this moment. Settle into it. Let your mind wander. It might take you someplace very interesting if you let it.”
I want to dream big. Do big. Embrace the wide open spaces of life with my arms open in eager abandonment.
As Mary Oliver says, you must decide “what is it you plan to do / with your one wild and precious life.”
For me, planning takes quiet and time and trees.
One Comment
Ms Bear Cub
sara, this is so true!
I think this is the hardest thing for people who want to make positive change in their world, yet still appreciate things on a local, personal level. You've heard of the slow movement, right? You must have 🙂 Block out your time to chill!
Sometimes after work, the only thing that will help me re-center is to go outside and sit on the grass in my garden. No thinking, just staring off into space and enjoying the breeze & smell of growing tomatoes & peppers 🙂