In 2007, when our kids were both under 4 and Matt and I were in a stressful season of ministry, I wrote a song. I named it ‘Tragedy’. A bit dramatic, yes, and on the nose about being awake to the day in front of you, not missing it. (It also feels kind of like a broadway tune, a light vibe for a heavy topic)
I was inspired by a recurring theme in my life: not being fully present and enjoying the moment I am in. Or maybe being present but being cranky in my presentness. Often I’m thinking about what’s next… the next project I’m working on, or snack I’m going to have… the next time I’ll see my kids or the next getaway my husband and I have planned… the next thing that has to be done on my never ending list of things to do… But what about this moment, the one I am currently sitting IN? What about Today?
So, as I was writing this I stopped and practiced:
I got up, opened my window so I could hear the wind chimes that were moving outside in the breeze. I noticed that the hills beyond our fence are rocky and green. I love living with hills and mountains close by. The sky is San Diego blue with wispy white clouds. I enjoyed a cup of Echinacea tea to help build up my immune system, even though I really want a cup of coffee, not for the coffee and caffeine but for the sugary creamer and whipped cream I love to put in it. Hmmmm stream of consciousness.
Sometimes it’s good for the soul to simply stop.
Observe. Breathe. Smile. Savor. Be still.
That reminds me.
Be still and know that I am God – Psalm 46:10
So I sat and settled in that truth for a moment.
Our striving and doing and moving are often motivated by fear or control. I HAVE to get this done or else…
And what about the person on the other side of us when we’re hustling to get to the next thing and not enjoying the moment we’re sharing with them?
Be still and know that I am God. Your lists and projects aren’t going anywhere, but they might work out even better if you choose to be still, for a moment.
Don’t miss it.
Don’t let life be a tragedy.
You can check out Tragedy on Spotify or wherever you stream your music 🙂
Sarah Lynn Grubb 