Become Friends with Time: A Guided Reflection for Writers, Journalers, and Creative Souls
Daily Nourishment Read Time: 45 seconds
Pause/Prompt/Practice Time: 15 minutes
“Just about every spiritual direction conversation with writers is a conversation about some aspect of time.”
-Spiritual Direction for Writers: Everyday Rituals for Your Writing Life
Pause.
Sit in silence while taking three deep breaths. Use the words below for a breath prayer or breath meditation on each of the inhales and exhales:
Inhale: I am here.
Exhale: Be here now.
Repeat as many times as you like.
Prompt.
“And just about every spiritual direction conversation with writers is a conversation about some aspect of time. Last week one writer was considering how much time it would take to recover physically, feel more settled, and establish meaningful friendships after a recent move and job change. Another writer has been waiting on responses from publishers about her book manuscript and wants to be better at waiting but can’t seem to crack that code. A writer who is a new father keeps experimenting with his writing and prayer schedule with a baby. What used to work no longer works, and he has yet to discover a new system for contemplative practices and creativity that fit well with his new paternal obligations.”
“Befriend time with more interesting narratives that honor both your writing aspirations and unavoidable forces beyond your control. When you are sure you have run out of time, or when interruptions arise, try viewing these moments as necessary parts of your spiral growth rather than as obstacles. Try opening yourself to possibilities instead of being disgruntled and losing hope.”
-Spiritual Direction for Writers: Everyday Rituals for Your Writing Life
Practice.
Set a timer for 10 minutes and take notes in response to the excerpt above and the questions below.
—What could it look like for you to practice belonging to time and being friends with time?
—How do your cycles of rest and work, writing and reading, giving and receiving unfold over time?
—How can you repair your relationship with time and work with its natural cycles instead of fighting against them?
Want More?
Read Spiritual Direction for Writers: Everyday Rituals for Your Writing Life.
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Today’s Daily Nourishment was provided by Charlotte Donlon.
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