A couple of Gratituesdays ago, I wrote that I was giving myself permission to rest. Part of that is because several in my family (including myself) had come down with the flu – the fever, body ache, coughing kind of flu. And the other part? After a busy month in March, finishing and introducing my new book, plus traveling three out of four weekends of the month – I found myself completely exhausted.
For the past two weeks, I have only done bare minimum each day. I haven’t done loads of intense writing. I have rested and moved slowly as I’ve put together simple meals for my family. I’ve let my body heal from being sick. I’ve hardly left the house. (Except yes, I have gone to several of my boys’ soccer games. I needed the sunshine, and I really wanted to be with my family.)
While I still feel somewhat tired and need extra sleep each day (that flu is nasty, I tell ya), I am now starting to feel more like myself. I am beginning to feel refreshed. I have enjoyed my family in ways I haven’t taken the time to enjoy them for a while. And most importantly, I have been able to learn a lesson or two from God that I believe He has been waiting for me to hear. Apparently, it took knocking me down for a few days of feverish chills for me to listen.
While being sick hasn’t been fun, I have truly been thankful for the time to reflect and pray. These past two weeks have really made me aware of my weaknesses, and how God’s strength is made perfect through those weaknesses. I’ve learned that setting boundaries in all aspects of my life isn’t just necessary – it’s godly.
God doesn’t expect me to be all things for all people. He’s already got that covered. My focus is simply to be godly. In doing so, I will be able to accomplish everything He needs me to accomplish!
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Glad you are on the mend! I have only had the flu once in my life and it was sooooo not fun!! Take it easy and stay well hydrated! God Bless~ Kristin ;=)
Thank you for being an inspiration to us all! I love your blog.
I was blessed to not have gotten the flu this year, but I had it bad last year and know how long it is to recuperate. Glad you were able to take a break and also draw closer to the Lord. Praying you are fully recovered soon!
In His Love, Ann @ Christ in the Clouds
Great reminder! And I’m so glad you’re feeling better….
Glad you are feeling better. We have been studying the Celebration of Disciplines and meditating is so important.
Baby Q arrived and I loved being a part of the birth. I wrote about this couple in my gratituesday this week.
Blessings Laura
Thanks for a peek into what God is teaching you. While I haven’t fallen ill with anything (yet) I’ve had to push myself a little too hard lately, and I’m paying the price in the relationships with my kids and in my energy levels. It’s time to reevaluate the schedule, and just let some things go. The funny thing is, I had just blogged about it…but I guess I have trouble taking my own advice! I appreciate the reminder. :)
http://redeemingthehome.com/2013/03/07/ill-never-be-able-to-do-it-all-and-im-okay-with-that/
Sounds like it is rest well needed! Thanks for sharing that – I am still trying to learn that one. ;-)
I am thankful this morning that our middle son and his wife, who live outside of Boston, were not at the marathon yesterday. They are both safe and sound. Praise God for His protection for our kids.
Is it sad that sometimes I almost wish for a sprained ankle or something to take myself out of commission for a couple days so I can rest and be recharged…. but I know. watch what you ask for! :)
I’m glad you’re feeling better and that you gave yourself time to rest. Everyone needs that sometimes. And yes, I believe sometimes God needs us to slow down so we can listen to Him better. :)