Sometimes it is good to do nothing.

I was a participant in a meeting once where I mentioned that I was feeling guilty about spending a recent day doing absolutely nothing more than the minimal requirements of the day. I then went on to talk about some of the things I missed out on by not actively participating in some of the potential activities that were available to me on that date. Following the meeting one of those attending approached me and spoke about the need, from time to time, that he had to spend time just like I was feeling guilty about. He said that I missed out on the enjoyment, that he discovered, of doing nothing and suggested that I should change my view. I'm not sure whether he is right or wrong in that regard but I have learned that I do need an occasional day when my participation in it is minimal. I have learned to not feel guilty about spending a day so casually as long as they happen infrequently.

We had the opportunity to visit our family in Nashville, Tennessee this past weekend and the plan included several days of doing nothing. We made no plans other than church on Sunday and a get together with friends of our family that we also have come to love and enjoy spending time with. It was fantastic. Sleeping a little later than normal (7 to 8ish). Watching movies. Sitting around the dinner table visiting. Not even thinking about e-mail or Facebook. Not a care in the world other than what was happening right in front of us. Watching grandchildren play together. Reading to them and listening to them read to us. Hearing the joy in their voices as they sing to no one in particular (in their loudest voices). A very good few days of other than normal activity. Loved it.

Monday came. Time to think about heading home. What's that you say? The flight has been canceled? Cool. More time to spend in the pursuit of nothing in particular. After texting employers and family members, and two hours on hold waiting to re-schedule that flight home we once again could take some time to do nothing. This day was only different in that we could not venture outside due to frigid temperatures and ice on every surface visible. So we stayed in and listened as more songs were sung, more time was spent in conversation, and the brain slowly switched back from it's time to head for home to it's time for more resting and enjoying what is right here.

We found plenty to occupy our time. The added two days in Tennessee passed very steadily and we finally had to say our goodbyes. The journey home was uneventful but long. Three airports, and a 5 hour drive later, we backed into the garage. After two days of catching up at work I have had a few minutes to reflect on the things learned (or re-learned) about time spent doing nothing. I guess I can sum it up like this; Doing nothing while spending time with family and friends becoming reacquainted, observing the interactions among those we have come to love, shutting off the cares and concerns of life in the rear-view mirror, is some of the best time spent.

Thanks for checking in. More to come soon. See you then.