“I’m scared you’re going to get hurt again,” my daughter told me a couple nights ago as I was tucking her into bed. Ever since I’d broken my arm and tore my knee at the beginning of the summer, she’s been concerned about me, constantly reminding me to wear my knee brace and walk slowly.
I promised her that I’d do everything I could to make sure I didn’t get hurt again. Then I kissed her on the forehead and started to leave her room.
“Mommy?” she asked before I got to the doorway.
“Yes?”
“Be slow when you do things, okay?”
“Okay.”
“Be steady too.”
I smiled. “Okay.”
“And be careful.”
“I will,” I promised. I told her goodnight again and left her room.
But our conversation got me thinking…
Her advice was really good. So much of the time, life gets busy and I forget to slow down. I forget to be steady and deliberate. Or even careful.
How many opportunities do I miss to truly enjoy each moment, simply because I’m rushing? How many people do I pass on the street or in the grocery store who might be hurting or in need of help, but I don’t see that? Do I hurt people’s feelings without meaning to because I’m not being careful?
I think of these things and I’m reminded of Psalm 46:10…
“Be still and know that I am God.”
I don’t want to miss things that God has put in my path. I want to be still enough to hear Him and live each moment of my life with intention.
My greatest times of renewal and inspiration have been when I’ve taken time to slow down and be still. To listen to God’s voice and feel His tug on my heart. To read His word. To pray.
And some of the most meaningful times in my relationships with others–whether they’ve been with my husband, my kids, family or friends–have been when we’ve slowed down and made time for each other. Time to connect, and talk, and laugh.
In the same way it’s a good idea for me to be slow, steady, and careful to avoid another knee injury, it’s also a good idea for me to try to live each day that way. To go through each day slow enough to notice simple miracles like a clear blue sky or the leaves turning colors. To be steady and deliberate enough to take time to hug my kids and kiss my husband every chance I get. And to be careful enough to notice when my friend is hurting or when that stranger needs help.
What about you? Are you living intentionally? What are your best ways to slow down and connect with God and others?
Thanks for that reminder! Praying for healing for you.