Words Get in the Way

In the morning, I like to wake up before my children and spend time in solitude. Quieting my random thoughts, I devote a few minutes to mindfully pay attention to my breath, and then remember what I am thankful for. Sometimes I might ask for help in a contemplative prayer.

This time is sacred and precious. As are all the minutes in the day. Even the loud ones! But quieting myself before the people in my world awaken sets the tone for a calmer, more present, me.

My family deserves this, and I do, too.

Solitude allows me to tap into my inner self. Sometimes my ego tries to get in the way, but concentrating on the silence brings awareness of a special Presence deep inside of me. Sometimes I hear a bird sing outside my window as the sun rises. This sound only heightens my awareness of the inherent connection to nature us humans have. It’s quite amazing that a bird’s song can invoke feelings of happiness and awe.

Reading words is not necessary to feel this connection. Honestly, sometimes words get in the way. How can language accurately portray the things of God?

Don’t get me wrong, I like to read words. It’s one of my favorite hobbies. But when it comes to feeling a sacred Presence, words take a backseat to practices like solitude and nature in my opinion.

God is alive in our surroundings and in us. Why complicate things by adding texts, creeds, and formulas into the mix?

I’m afraid our society feels like we must have a formula for everything. I sometimes fall into this trap, too. But there is much to learn about letting go to our notions, and just being alone in blissful silence while the sacred surrounds us.