The Power of Stillness in the Chaos

I decided to play around with this idea to see if the world keeps spinning. I assumed it wouldn’t, but risked it anyway… In March, while I was on spring break from teaching and home with only my three-year-old, I decided to pause numerous times throughout the day to “be still.”

• While walking to the zoo with my youngest, gentle spring snow was falling. I saw the beauty in my youngest reaching out his hand to grab the thick, warm snowflakes
• When I compared myself to someone else and fell short, I stilled my mind. I had to do this several times before I found peace in my heart before God reminded me He created me different than others ON PURPOSE. Comparison is a beast.
• When I looked out the window, I inhaled deeply and stilled my racing mind. I noticed how pretty the trees were swaying in rhythmic motions to the caressing wind. Why do I not notice how lovely God’s beautiful creation of earth more?
• As I read a book to my oldest, he leaned his head against me, and I felt blessed.  How many more years do I have left of him resting his head on my shoulder?
• One son had a hard day. We talked as I tucked him into bed and I noticed how cute he was snuggled deep under his covers, looking up at me with his big blue eyes and freckles that skipped across his nose. I stilled my mind and I felt the love in that moment, even amongst the challenges of parenting.
• When I was nervous about something, I mentally stood before the Lord. I felt His presence as He calmed my heart.
• When I was having an over-the-top stressful week, I paused in a state of survival to catch my breath. Goodness was reflected in my husband’s actions. Without me asking after work, he jumped right into helping me.
• When my youngest needed me in the middle of the night, I lay on the floor next to his toddler bed, wide awake. I prayed about something bothering me. I felt Jesus speak to my heart, not really with a solution, but with the kind of peace that His presence brings. 

More of my inspirational finds here. 

Some days scream by and I hardly have time to eat my meal, and other days seem to more naturally beckon me to be still. But either way, it doesn’t matter – there are no rules to this. I just know, when I still my mind, I’m more fully present. It’s as if the shades are taken off my eyes and I can see all the goodness around me. (Until my toddler spills his milk plunging me back into reality.)

Momma's, still your mind and you'll feel more fully present. Allow yourself to better enjoy your day. #momlife Click To Tweet

But, between those chaotic moments – there is so much beauty – sometimes, we just need to be still and see it. 

Cheryl Donely

Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.

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