As we wrap up this Thanksgiving weekend, I hope you had wonderful, memorable times you’ll enjoy again and again as they float through your memory.
I wonder if you were able to give yourself any moments of silence. Yes, silence. You know, those bits or blocks of time when you are alone, uninterrupted. One of my favorite places for quiet time is in the car. Radio off. Phone ringer silenced. Parked or driving. It’s a comfy cocoon.
Silence gives my brain time to focus. It helps me work through what is on my mind. It’s my time for unloading, uncovering, exploring. When I write what’s on my mind, often unexpected thoughts show up. Usually, a welcomed surprise.
I cannot do this kind of thinking with music on, TV in the background, or noisy activity nearby. I think better when it’s quiet and I’m alone.
I was touched by an article a friend sent me, written by Thomas J. Neal, Ph.D. Neal wrote:
“Silence is the true home of wonder. The stilled atmosphere in which the heart can breathe deep… Silence is also the precondition for attention. Without silence, attention can’t remain stable. Silence gives attention its depth of field. It gathers the scattered self….Ours is a culture increasingly fearful of silence.”
Instead of fearing it, I hope you embrace it. Make a point in December to ensure you have moments, minutes, blocks of time in silence. Treat it like a treasured friend. You may want to ask family, friends, coworkers to help you protect time for yourself. Maybe they’ll follow your lead and want to do it, too. Don’t let FOMO keep you from enjoying time unplugged. I’m sure you’ll be glad you did.
