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This past week a lot has happened: nErdCamp close to my home, father-in-law in a hospital after unplanned surgery, visiting friend in hospital and rehab center, working on the test items that I need to submit and revise, read professional books for cyber PD, read for pleasure, meet with friends, work on a fall conference, think about how I can improve my classes in the fall, exercise, plan and cook healthy meals, discover my creative side, watch the DVD series that I borrowed from library, discover a deeper relationship with my creator, and get ready for the young man's funeral I will be attending on Saturday.
What happened to my summer or relaxation and discovery?
I think it is time for me to take back my summer days and discover mindfulness!
I can't do everything. So, mindfulness today means that I can do what I can; I don't have to measure up to every other educator on twitter. I can set my own schedule. I can read an adult novel, not just YA books. I can meet friends for lunch instead of writing a blog post about the next great PD book. I can stay home and enjoy the quiet.
Or I can go and sit by my father-in-law's bedside for a while to give my mother-in-law a break. So today, I am being mindful about my relationships. People always come first!
Right. There. With. You.
ReplyDeleteAnd while I love my PLN and all the learning, encouragement, and inspiration that come from Twitter, I realize that unless someone hires several hundred assistant to my current staff of one, I will NEVER measure up to my online peers. "Comparison is the thief of joy" according to T. Roosevelt, so I must consistently resist the desire to try to keep up with my Twittering Joneses.
Wishing you all best as you focus on what matters most. Faith. Family. Friends.
Thank you Greg! Love the quote by T. Roosevelt. I have to write that down and put it where I can see it often!
DeleteSuch wise words, Jaana and hard to live sometimes. Earlier this week I had to make some tough decisions and set some boundaries. I have family here right now (napping before dinner) and it's important that I'm HERE for them. I agree with you and Greg too...we can't compare...or we must resist. Being our own best selves is enough! Prayers for your father-in-law and for you as you attend a funeral this weekend.
ReplyDeleteThank you Michelle! Prayers are good! Love this phrase of yours: "Being our own best selves is enough!"
DeleteSigh. YES! I can hear the same concerns echoing in my own life. It's so difficult to keep up with all that is out there. So much to do. Love your last paragraph. The people who need you and are right in front of you are the most important! Favorite thoughts: "So, mindfulness today means that I can do what I can; I don't have to measure up to every other educator on twitter. I can set my own schedule. I can read an adult novel, not just YA books. I can meet friends for lunch instead of writing a blog post about the next great PD book. I can stay home and enjoy the quiet."
ReplyDeleteThank you Holly! I think today will be a quiet day. Gym and then keeping in mind "mindfulness" as I plan the rest of the day!
DeleteSometimes you need to stop and listen to what you know is important. We cloud up our days with all these expectations. I can totally relate. I signed on to too many online things. All good, but too many. I've had to regulate my own involvement, take a step back, and do what really matters in order to preserve myself. Prayers for the healing of your father-in-law and the family of the young man. Take a moment to breathe and be mindful. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThank you Margaret! I will definitely try to take more than just one moment in the coming weeks and breathe more. Perhaps I will find a few more beautiful photo opportunities when I am not too busy, but will take a time to appreciate the beauty around me!
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