For this former procrastinator, there are many happy summer memories. The break from school meant much more freedom, more opportunity to “do nothing.” It’s important not to have every minute planned and structured. We want to avoid idleness as a habit, but there is also wisdom in rest and play.
I liked to ride my blue bike to the library in town. There was anticipation just walking up the worn marble steps and into the cool building. Inside smelled dusty old and like thousands of books. Tall ceilings, creaky floors. It was completely natural to speak only in whispers. I could stay as long as I wanted and then bike home with my treasures.
We enjoyed kickball in the yard and twilight chase games with my dad. So did the whole neighborhood. Sometimes during dinner the doorbell would ring. “Can your dad come out and play?” I loved wading in the creek, going barefoot, swimming, and catching lightening bugs.
A big treat was going to the beach for a few days. It was tons of work for both parents, but they’d make that getaway. The point was breaking from regular work for family time together in a place we enjoyed.
All of these things were just for fun. Fun is good. Rest from the normal expectations of work. Even if work is involved (somebody has to pack, cook, and clean), there is still a sense of break because a different place or activity provides respite from regular demands. God designed us for work, yes – but also for play and rest.
In some countries, the whole month of August is considered vacation. Here, we put off anything that keeps us from work. Not so healthy. Let’s be diligent to play and rest this summer! We may not be able to take a month off, but a day now and then can provide a breather we need. Do less. At least for a few days here – and a few days there – do less. Do what needs doing when it needs doing – work, play, or rest.
What ideas can you add to these?
• Try a new ice cream flavor
• Play in the hose or sprinkler
• Lie in the yard at night and figure out the summer constellations
• Play croquet or kickball in the yard
• Go on a picnic or go fishing
• Attend a summer concert or movie in the park
• Make ice cream – with or without an ice cream maker
• Read outside in the shade
• Do something “touristy” in your own area
• Visit a museum or historical site
• Play putt putt golf
• Make chalk art in the driveway or play hopscotch
• Browse a bookstore
• Sleep late
• Catch some lightening bugs – or fireflies if that’s what you have!
We have a relative with us this week so we’re taking off from our clean out project. Ahhhh!
What will you do this summer just because you enjoy it?
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