I stepped out of the house, work backpack on my shoulders, coffee in one hand, and breakfast balanced in the other. My cellphone was tucked under my arm as I struggled to open the car door. I must have looked like a circus performer trying to pull off an act. It’s become a common sight–juggling too much at once.
Carrying the load
When I have a long to-do list, I try to be as efficient as possible. At work, if I need to deliver or pick up several things around the building, I will mentally map out the best route to save time. One might catch me in the hallway, arms full of items, making sure I only take one trip. I’d rather carry a heavy load than make several trips.
It’s funny how often I do the same thing in life without realizing it. Mentally juggling several tasks, worries, and to-dos. I’ll be typing an email, when suddenly I remember I need to create a graphic. Then one of my kids calls, so I switch to speaker phone while replying to a text from my mom. At the same time, I’m opening the browser for the design project. In between all of this, I’m thinking about calling the dog groomer, deciding what to pick up at the grocery store or working on a social media post. I am constantly juggling.
This year has brought its share of difficult and joyous life moments. Surgeries, medical tests and procedures have dotted the calendar. I’ve lost loved ones, some expected, others not. On the other hand, I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of two new grandsons. I’ve witnessed friends carry heartbreaking burdens and exciting new beginnings. Some days, I don’t realize how heavy the load is that I’m carrying until I pause.
Finding peace in stillness
And that pause is everything. In those moments, I stop–physically and mentally. I may bask in the warmth of the autumn sun on my skin and observe the colors of the leaves. Perhaps I simply focus on my breathing and relax my shoulders. I look up, taking in the world around me. For that small moment, the juggling stops, and the load lightens. In a moment of silence, I receive the gift of peace.
These pauses remind me that while life will always present new tasks, challenges, and joys, it’s in those moments of stillness where I can truly see what matters. And perhaps, by letting go for just a little while, I’ll find the strength to carry on–with a lighter heart and mind.