“The more social media we have, the more we think we’re connecting, yet we are really disconnecting from each other.”
JR
There is a busy epidemic in our society. Social Media, the hustle movement and comparison trick us into believing that busyness equals success.
Have you wondered what it was like to embrace slow?
Has your heart been leaning towards the simple and present over the perfect?
Yesterday I spent most of my day phone free. It was a weighted distraction that had been lifted from my body. There were moments (if I am honest) that a little wave of panic flashed across my mind as I wondered whether anyone had been trying to contact me.
Social Media often makes me very unsocial. Running around online making sure all my pots are boiling. Checking in, answering messages, promoting events and sending out love to those I have never met. Yet those in my present sit, my beloved’s, patiently waiting for me to answer their questions.
Then enters Mary. She kind of annoys me. Okay, she frustrates me a lot. Reminding me that sitting at the edge of what is presently awaiting the gift of my attention. Often it is Jesus.
Luke 10:38-42
“Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
Often the answer we end up assuming is “It’s all or nothing.” That is it, I am removing all apps and social media from my life. However, I am learning that discipline in the little brings great reward in the end.
How can we love the possibility and technology of the online world but at the same time master it?
I am learning it is a paradox that applies to every part of our lives and learning to slow, take the time to say no and then begin again is the beauty of the human condition. We can be both productive and slow. We can be both successful and rested. We can be both hard working and intentional.
“The mark of a wild heart is living out the paradox of love in our lives. It’s the ability to be tough and tender, excited and scared, brave and afraid- all in the same moment.”
Brene Brown
Accountability from my friends is a great gift in my slowing journey. Having conversations that ask the same questions and don’t finish with awkward silence. Admitting my obsessions and allowing grace to lead me home.
We can be both purposed online but also present.
We can be both effective and slow.
We can take the time to be intentional with our passions but not allow them to take over everything.
We can be tough and tender, excited and scared, brave and afraid.
This is the human heart awaiting the revelation of the God who walks aside and also within.
Dear Jesus,
I ask forgiveness for the times that I have allowed others opinions to overshadow that of yours in my daily life. When busyness has become my hallmark of purpose, rather than sitting at your feet with peace and wonder. Help me to discover the fruit of the spirit in my everyday. And help me to Sabbath often from the things I delight in more than you. Help me embrace slow.
Today,
Amen
Over these next 40 days,
Em Hazeldean and I will be unpacking our wrestle with embracing slow. Today begins the season of Lent and it is a call towards the simple and present.
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