Why It’s Important to Retreat.

Retreat.  That is what was needed this weekend.  I had one of those weeks that kept me tied down and unable to put any effort in my goals. Unable to stay caught up with life’s demands.  I was tired and could not focus.  Life was getting the best of me.  My sleep pattern was off, my exercise patter was off, my eating habits were off.  I was just off.  So I did the best thing I could of done, I retreated.

The beautiful mountains of Colorado summoned me.

At first I had a hard time convincing myself to pack my bags and go. How could I leave so much undone? Leaving anything undone is something I cannot get myself to do often.  Flowers in pots that needed planted, laundry that needed attention, a youth retreat to prepare for, a house that needed cleaned, and an extra day away from my job. I was starting to feel guilty for leaving.  But I did what was the best for me, my family, and my co-workers.

As I sit here typing and admiring the view that God has created, I realize that he set this opportunity for me at just the right time.  Had I decided to stay home I would of planted those flowers in a manner that lacked the joy I had when I purchased them.  I would of stayed home  to catch up on chores that would not of feed my soul like the mountain air is doing right now.  Staying home I would have forced myself to prepare for a youth retreat when my mind was clouded not allowing my creative side to show. I would have not entered my job with the attitude that it deservers.

I urge you to retreat when your tank is low.  Get away.  Do this whenever  you are feeling as if you cannot accomplish your goals with joy.  Don’t force yourself if you do not have a deadline to meet.  Push the list away and acknowledge that you need time to refuel your soul.  Time to be in pure silence,  time to regroup.

I will not always have the opportunity to retreat far  from home and leaving my home may not even be an option at times. We can still find a way to retreat if only for a few minutes.  Remove yourself from that place of discomfort and go to a different scenery.  Close your eyes and take yourself to a place that brings you peace if that’s your only option.  Do something to better your state of mind.

In time you begin to breathe better, to feel better.  The clouds start to part from your mind .  All the creativity and joy begin to peek through the clouds.  You are able to return to your tasks with peace and grace.

Retreat: The act or process of moving back or away, especially from something hazardous, formidable, or unpleasant.  A period of seclusion, retirement, or solitude.

Share with me how you were able to retreat when you need to refuel.  Where are those places you go when you cannot venture too far?

As I tread through.

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