Doing Nothing

We live in a society that is rapidly losing the art of doing nothing. We go, go, go all the time – if we aren’t going, we feel guilty. At least I feel guilty. As a society, we don’t know how to be quiet anymore. (If you don’t believe me, next time someone mentions “a moment of silent prayer” in church, time it. I guarantee that in 12 seconds – 15 seconds tops – people will be uncomfortable – and get restless, and somehow start making noise – a cough, rustling paper, clearing the throat.)

Christmastime seems to be especially busy. Programs at church, rehearsals of all sorts for those programs, buying and wrapping presents, Christmas baking, parties every time you turn around, driving to visit family and friends – and the list just keeps growing. It seems that “yes” is the only word on everyone’s lips: “Yes, I will attend _________________.” “Yes, I will buy ____________________.” “YES, I will _______________.” “Yes, Yes, YES!” And one other place where people say “yes” during the holidays is at the food table. I cannot tell you how many people have said to me that they are going to get serious about losing weight after the holidays. That is a worthy goal! And I have said it myself so many times that I can’t even begin to count them. And yet – the more I don’t exercise self-control now, the more I will ultimately have to reverse “after the holidays.”

I think we should learn a new word for this Christmas: “NO.” As in, “No, we aren’t going to add any more activities – we are going to spend some family time together.” “No, we are not buying everything on everyone’s Christmas list.” “NO, we are not ________________________.” And how about, “No, I am not going to pig out at this buffet/party/cookie exchange. I will taste things, but I will make smart choices about the food I eat.” This is my 49th Christmas, and I can honestly say that it is the FIRST time I am even attempting to make smart choices. That is really sad to me.

So, this year (and all the years to come) I wish you PEACE – the kind of peace that comes from slowing down; the kind of peace that comes from saying to “no” to all of the extras, and saying “yes” to the things that matter – like time with family; and the kind of peace that comes from taking control of your choices – that enjoys but doesn’t overindulge: The PEACE of the Baby in the manger.