Sometimes Baxter doesn't want to be bothered. He gets in his private space, and he doesn't want to be disturbed there. He sits or lies down quietly with his eyes either staring into space or half closed. He makes no sounds. He stays perfectly still. He's the picture of peace inside and out. At these times, Baxter loves his solitude, and he is content to be alone. He doesn't want to be held, to get some fresh catnip, or to play. He wants quiet. He's at home with himself.
We need to find this same sort of solitary space for ourselves. In today's world, that is not an easy proposition. We are surrounded so much with sights and sounds from the radio, TV, computer and cell phone, that we sometimes don't know how to shut it all off and enjoy the silence. We need noise to be comfortable. We need glitter and lights to keep our attention. We live on high alert, and then wonder why we are so stressed out. Silence makes us nervous, and sitting makes us restless. We have to be doing something, or we feel useless and uncomfortable. We forget how to truly relax, so we are endlessly searching for the right technique. We pass through numerous health fads guaranteeing lower blood pressure, less stress and more happiness, and finally, we give up and give in. We hear, "That's just the way life is today. Learn to live with it."
But Jesus promises something else. "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." How does this work in today's world?
First, we can work hard without working frantically and under pressure. Getting things done doesn't have to do us and others in, if we work together. The whole job isn’t on our shoulders, but we have to give up some of it, if we want relief. Next, everything doesn’t have to be done today. Planning and prioritizing puts tasks in manageable packages. We can divide the load among ourselves, and set a schedule that spreads the work over time so that we aren't overwhelmed with too much all at once. Finally, we need to relax. Trust that your plan will work and that others can do their jobs without anyone hovering over them. The trick is for it all to come together in the end. A key to this happening is cooperation and good will among the workers.
Peace of mind doesn't come magically. But it can be helped by our using our minds in working smart, and using our hearts in working together to accomplish a common goal. Then we may just find the time to pull back, be quiet and enjoy our privacy. Baxter does. Try following his example, and discover that God is with you in the peace and quiet.
