Hi Friends,

How have you been? I’ve slowed down a bit lately, thought about writing, gathered ideas and quotes to write about, but haven’t actually written much lately, just a few short Instagram posts I tagged you in, here and there. I wonder why we slow down sometimes.

How about you? I hope you’ve stayed on track because we know it’s hard to get started again.

Slowing down is one thing, but don’t stop unless it’s to smell the roses. That’s what I keep telling myself, and That’s why I here today, writing you a letter. It’s been a while, and I’ve missed you.

Ever get into a slow season of life? Into a place of rest whether you want to or not. That’s where I am now. Heavy thoughts swirling in my head, slowing me down.

I’ve been using this time to contemplate the future and take active steps to sort things out. How will we handle life when my sister’s Alzheimer’s progresses? What does retirement look like for me? Will a loved one’s medical condition be healed? It doesn’t sound like rest, but slowing down gives us time to figure out things.

How are you? Are the kids happy to be finishing the school year? Are you planting a garden this year?

I don’t want this slow down to last too long because that’s when I start thinking too much. Anxiety follows. I don’t want to be that person. I’ve written before about having panic attacks, and I’m working hard not to have another one.

The Cure for Anxiety

²⁷ And which of you by worrying can add a single day to his life’s span? ²⁸ And why are you worried about clothing? Notice how the lilies of the field grow; they do not labor nor do they spin thread for cloth, ²⁹ yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. ³⁰ But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! ³¹ Do not worry then, saying, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear for clothing?’ ³² For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. ³³ But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you. 

³⁴ “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:27-34 (NASB)

Then God reminds me He knows what I need. And He knows what you need too. We need only shift our focus to God and trust HIm for our peace (Philippians 4:6-7). He will do the rest.

By the way, the roses are from my garden, and they do smell heavenly. Take care, friend, and say hello to everyone for me. I hope to see you soon.

Slow down and enjoy your day,

Suzette

Posting in the Five Minute Friday linkup today, where we write for five minutes (well, I try) to a one-word wringing prompt. Today the prompt is SLOW.