Become Friends with Time II: A Guided Reflection for Writers, Journalers, and Creative Souls Using “The Persistence of Memory” by Salvador Dali
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.
Return to the art, “The Persistence of Memory” by Salvador Dali.
Look at it for three more minutes. Then take 10 minutes to answer these questions:
What does this art stir in you?
What do the images of the clocks mean to you right now?
What do you remember about yesterday?
What have you forgotten about yesterday?
What do you want to remember about this moment right now?
How much time do you want to give to your writing and creative work today and throughout the next week?
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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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