Advent Speed Bumps
During the first 5 years of Belly of the Whale Ministries (2014-2019), I had an annual tradition of sharing suggestions for ways we could slow down the feeling of "speeding" through December toward Christmas Day. For some reason I have gotten away from that practice, but am feeling like I could use some reminders this year.
So, for my own benefit (and maybe yours too!) here is a reminder of my top ten favorite Advent Speed Bumps from years gone by. May they offer practical reminders of how we all can slow down, breathe a little more deeply and let the candles of the Advent wreath light our way to the manger...
10) Give alternative gifts - Rather than spending hours on-line or in-line, consider giving a charitable gift in honor of someone you love. Research a cause or topic that is meaningful to that person and make a donation in their name.
9) Walk slowly - We often don't realize how fast we are walking from one thing to the next. Even when we aren't in a rush, we rush out of habit. Next time you are rushing from here to there, purposefully slow your pace, breath deeply and remember the reason for the season.
8) Turn off the phone - Yep, just turn it off. Set your phone so you can receive emergency notifications if need be, but let the rest of it go for awhile. Cell phone sabbath can be a much needed breath of fresh air.
7) Procrastinate - Give yourself permission to send your yearly greetings AFTER Christmas. Groundhogs Day, Valentine's Day or even Easter greetings can be a lovely surprise to family & friends. This "new tradition" can help you to savor the process of sending cards without the pressure of a self-imposed deadline.
6) Gaze at the stars - Rather than racing into your home one evening, stand outside and gaze into the starry night sky just as the shepherds and magi did all those years ago.
5) Read Christmas stories - Whether you have young children or not, pull out some favorite Christmas storybooks and read them aloud. Read slowly, enjoy the beautiful illustrations and reclaim a bit of childhood wonder along the way.
4) Light candles - Light up the darkness with candles safely placed anywhere and everywhere - you can even use the battery kind if you prefer.
3) Color - Reclaim your child-like wonder and delight as color fills the page - use colored pencils, crayons, markers or whatever brings you joy. Staying within the lines is optional!
2) Take 10 minutes to eat one Christmas cookie - You may think that I have lost my mind with this one, but bear with me. We are so often eating in a rush - grabbing lunch, snack or treat on the go. Why not slow down, take just one cookie, savor it and delight in the flavors of the season.
1) TAKE A NAP - My very favorite spiritual practice of all times - "napsio divina" or sacred slumber! Close your eyes for just 10-20 minutes and listen for God's still, small voice in the sacred silence.
What might be some Advent speed bumps that you could add to this list? Blessings and peace to you this sacred Advent season as you slow down and let the candles light your way.