At work the other day I began to notice something. We seem to be moving through life at an alarming speed. I manage a fairly busy Starbucks location and over the weekend I was surprised at people’s urgency to get their coffee. I could literally feel peoples energy moving towards the counter. The next person/s in line couldn’t wait to get to order. This was on a Sunday. I remember when nothing was even open on Sunday’s. Does that make me old? Sunday used to be a day of rest amongst other things. When stores began to open on Sundays there was a lot of controversy and rules around it. At London Drugs the automotive aisle had gates on it so that you couldn’t buy products and “work” on your car. Speaking of cars, what I am describing here is similar to that person driving behind you that just can’t wait to pass you at the first opportunity. In such a hurry, that they will pass you on the double solid.
My kids and I often have what we call “Nothing Days” where we don’t even get dressed let alone leave the house. We love it. It is refreshing, relaxing and there are no expectations.
What is the cost of all this urgency? Is something wrong? Have we forgotten to enjoy life and to simply relax? Everything is coming at us at warp speed. Faster, bigger, better.
I believe we are missing a lot in the process and becoming very out of touch with ourselves. When was the last time you connected with the person behind the counter. Or took the time to say hello to the person behind you in the line up? Or noticed the scenery as you were driving instead of talking on the phone? What are you missing by always being 5 minutes late for everything? Is your day full of tasks and lacking fulfillment?
Slow down and observe all that you are missing. Slow down and say hello to the smiling baby. Listen to the children laughing and living life in the moment. Stop and get to know your neighbor. Say hello to the person in the elevator instead of looking at the floor. Leave for work fifteen minutes earlier and enjoy your coffee. Take some time to reconnect with yourself. Eliminate some of the must do’s on your calendar and replace with what you want to do. Take the time to lookout for your fellow human beings and connect with them. Slow down and begin to notice the gifts in life that are always present. Slow down and notice your breath.
You never know, you might meet your new best friend in the process.
The Beatles – Slow Down
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