I mentioned earlier this month that I was feeling “done” with my word. And then I really settled in and spent time with Ali Edward’s team as they invited me to look at my word as if I was beginning again but from the perspective of how beginning in August looks so differently than it does in January.
Welcome to the deep breath of August… words that spoke to my heart. These words became my mantra this month especially as I began again contemplating what a full life might be.
I took a cue from a friend and made myself a daily reminder on my iPhone to sit down and spin. It is working so beautifully because I am almost done spinning for a sweater I want to knit! A simple reminder to make time to do something that I enjoy so very much.
I prioritized time for me… which is not ever on my list of things to do but this month I made space for me. I read poetry – specifically Derek Walcott. I have made a note in my calendar to spend every August with his poetry. It was so perfect this month…and especially Love After Love – it just fit so perfectly with making time for me!
I also did some knitting and lots of painting! The realization that not making space for myself results in a poorer quality of mental health which might actually be a gift to those around me!
I noted the changing light in the days, the difference in the birdsong, the groaning of my garden as the long string of dry weather took its toll. And rather than bemoan these things… I reveled in them.
In other words, I filled my days with August… and I loved every single second of it!
I want to thank Carolyn for so graciously providing a space for us all to share our journeys! See you all back here on Wednesday (hint!! There will be a Finished Object!!)
I’m happy to read that August turned out to be a good month for you Kat. Taking time for oneself is always important, I believe and I’m glad you’ve come to that conclusion. Here’s hoping we can all glide into September gracefully and enjoy FALL!!!
Making and taking time for yourself is something that I think most people can benefit from, and you have learned that and seen the benefits of putting it into practice. Well done for a full August!
This stopped me in my reading tracks, Kat: “The realization that not making space for myself results in a poorer quality of mental health which might actually be a gift to those around me!” Yes! Yes! YES! August seems like it served on multiple levels–and in some lasting ways. (I just love it when that happens.)
And Love After Love. Oy. My intro to that poem was when my spiritual director opened one of our sessions with it. She asked me to read it aloud. And I did, not having a clue what I was getting myself into. And I started bawling. It continues to be a defining one for me. (And defined much of what I did with her!)
It’s so easy to be swept away with tasks and forget about what fills our buckets of happiness, so glad you are prioritizing you!!
It sound like you reconnected with your word in some really meaningful ways this month. Well done, you!
We women, especially, often feel guilty for taking time for ourselves. But as you’ve so eloquently stated here, that can be to the detriment of our mental health, which can in turn impact those around us. So bravo to you for making that realization and prioritizing you-time!
Well done on making time for yourself, which turns out to be a bonus for all the family. I love what you say about August. I so feel it’s a time to be got through, but maybe next year I can look for and enjoy August’s positives. I don’t know the poet you mention, I shall look him up.
What beautiful ways to fill yourself with August, Kat! So glad you spent some time with Derek Walcott. He’s a favorite of mine, too. XO
This is a beautiful post. It is important to take time to do the things we love.