“Beside the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials.” ”-Lin Yutang
An interesting quote by someone who was born in the 19th Century and wrote a book called, The Importance of Living. Do you ever feel like there are many things you should be doing? To have To do Lists to accomplish, to be industrious and a person of action, out in the world fighting for a cause, is what we are told is ideal. I have begun to question if that dynamic person is really who I am, ever have been, and even should aspire to be. For one I am naturally a slow starter in the morning. For another I really don’t like rushing around in a whirlwind of activity. Why is there this great admiration of so-called productivity? Why is running around doing things, or the appearance of, held in such high esteem. There is a lot of satisfaction to be had in following your own path and pace, to savor and appreciate life. So I will put off saving the world for now.
Stream of Consciousness Saturday is hosted by Linda G Hill. The prompt for today is “-inter. Featured image of ‘Supergirl’ by Erika Wittlieb on Pixabay.com
I don’t aspire to be so busy that I can’t carve out some time to relax, enjoy and make my feeble attempt at being creative. I’m with you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like a good plan. Thank you, Dan. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your words are comforting. I have felt like I was supposed to save the world since I was about 15 years old. So now, I do feel a little guilty sometimes, like I’m not doing enough. But when I step back and look at the big picture, I have done at least my share. I’ve marched, I’ve written letters, I’ve organized events, I’m a compulsive recycler, I still volunteer….. And I plan to do more of these things. But my energy comes in waves. Like you, I’m a slow starter and don’t like rushing. I’m listening to my body and listening to the birds sing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Somehow we got the idea that we are supposed to fix everything. Guilted into being responsible. We have to live for ourselves too. Thank you, Jo Anna ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Being overly responsible is something I’ve had to deal with my whole life. Thanks for understanding.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think it describes me too. 🙂
LikeLike
This is exactly how I feel this morning. After a very busy week, I’m in the mood to do very little even though there are many projects I could work on. Perhaps I need more caffeine? 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Perhaps you need rest 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yep. Housework falls under that category of things left to do only when company is coming. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes we have to set our priorities. Housework has not been one of mine either. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Excellent. I for one, am with you on mornings and bustling about in crowds. I am industrious, as I am fidgety uptight with anxiety disorder, and so things do get done — But never once, in all my life, have I thought I was destined for greatness. Doubtful I’ll ever be known for my achievements. “And she grew a small garden, insignificant to those outside her own circle…” No. LOL Not the life I seek.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There have to be more definitions of a life’s worth and they will have to include all the variety of how each of us chooses to be. Thank you, Joey 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
…for now, I am busy trying to save myself 🙂
Let me invite you to my blog party going on right now. If you find the time, you are welcome to join the networking. Regards.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I find myself in the fast lane of life many times and have to just put on the breaks and make myself slow down and enjoy things and people around me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have been there too. As long as you are working from your own being and not an agenda that has his imposed on you from the outside. I am finding it easier to stay in the slow lane. Thank you, JC. 🙂
LikeLike
This resonated with me on so many levels. It is so important to just take a step back and go at one’s own pace.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I think we have to be in touch with ourselves and our own temperaments and know that it is ok. 🙂
LikeLike