karin dancy

Anyone else struggling to get it all done, while actually getting it all done?

Honestly, I think the trifecta of colder weather, all-things-holiday, and press of year-end deadlines makes my bed feel extra cozy every morning (read: hard to get out of, y’all). Add layers like missing loved ones and waking up to daily news that’s messy and, well, who can blame me for a little extra lingering in a warm bed?

When life piles it on, our first go-to is often withdrawal. Isolation. Pulling the covers over our heads, with big, wide yawns. Or, maybe your go-to looks more like working ’til you fade, shopping ’til you drop, or binge watching holiday movies ’til you fall into SleepyLand.

And maybe, like me, your go-to is a combination of the above.

But as this year, especially with all its plot twists, starts to wind down, I’ve found myself adding an extra sprinkle on days and nights: As much as possible, I take extra moments to make sure I’m okay. I don’t wait for the world to check on me. Even while getting it all (mostly) done, I pause on purpose to honestly check inward, on my heart, on my mind.

And when I detect that my heart or mind need relief, I breathe deeper and then go to What I Know . . .

🩷 I know Love, of God, family, and friends who feel like family.

🩷 I know Joy, in my children’s laughter and my husband’s embrace.

🩷 I know Peace, the kind of peace that confounds because it’s a faith thing.

What I Know is a beautiful place that offers respite. A remembrance that relieves and restores me. A gentle hangout spot for my mind and soul.

So, go ahead, world. As the youngins say, do you . . . your incessant demands, your shenanigans, even your chaos. I know What I Know. And, that go-to is enough for me.

Chime In, Y’all: What’s your go-to when life is lifing?