Ears to Hear

Reflections on the date of November 28, 1975

Fellow Time Travelers,

For me, one of the great things about the Thanksgiving holiday is the extra measure of time just when I need it. This morning was a bit hectic with Black Friday shopping, which didn’t exist in 1975. But as I write this, the sun is shining through my office, I’m listening to Pink Floyd (guess which song), and I have time to reflect.

My relationship to time has changed over time, and for the better. I have less fear of ticking clocks. When I was striving for my goal to get into CGA and even more as a cadet, time seemed an enemy. I had too much to do in too little ________. Nagging, barely acknowledged thoughts whispered, “You are falling behind. Try harder.” My anxiety often led me to be short with others and oblivious to many important things. Time management is a survival skill, but not if time is managing me. I wish I had taken more time at CGA for fun and friendships. There’s not a second shot at that.

Over time, some things have helped. I still have time pressures, but I have more peace with it, and I don’t turn into a jerk when under stress quite as much. For one thing, I have learned to breathe. To breathe mindfully, that is. It allows me to clear my mind and recognize the fear that’s eating at me. It also helps me to put things in perspective. Time is a gift. purpose is a gift, and I should be thankful for them both.

In my faith practice, I have learned to use breath prayers. Each short prayer is said in one cycle of inhaling and exhaling. A favorite prayer is “Fear…Not.” Then “Be…Light” and “Have…Faith.” As I pray, my pulse slows, my mind clears, and priorities sort themselves out.

Changing the channel with a short walk also works well. It’s amazing how quickly the brain becomes unstuck when my legs are in motion and my blood is flowing.

I often pray over my daily task list. I ask Jesus to show me which ones are the most important on this day. I put a star next to the ones that seem hot. I trust him to handle the ones I can’t get to. It always works out.

Yes, time is a gift, a gift to be used well.

“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Have a good one.

Aleph