Permission to Fly Low

There are days when we need to give ourselves permission to fly low. Glide close to the surface of things. Allow the cushion of air above calm waters to carry us. Do you need one of those days?

Life has been full of late. Business meetings. Networking functions. Precious time with our grandbaby. A three day trip for a wedding celebration. Family visits along the way. All the while thoughts spinning with dizzied mental digging, eager to see the map of what comes next in writing, art, and work. I fall into endless list-making, afraid of forgetting all that still needs to be done. It can wear a girl out before the work has barely begun. Ever felt that way?

It makes sense we need time to rest. But we must first allow it. Give ourselves permission to fly low.

So that’s exactly what I did. Slept early and late with naps in between. Two whole days in a row. Dozed right through laundry day too tired to even eat. The sure sign of a real need for intermission – when soup and saltines is all you can muster to cook.

I have a newly defined priority. The priority of staying well. It requires we ignore the voice that demands we fly higher, farther, faster, longer, always pushing for more without a space for rest. I am grateful for the luxury of these days, and the courage and support to allow them.

Let’s decide to be rebels. Aim for low ground once in a while – giving ourselves permission to fly low when our souls are weary. In need of rest. Take advantage of the still water effect reducing the resistance of air on our wings. Make room to cease striving. Just glide for a while.

The laundry can wait till tomorrow. Have leftovers for dinner one more time. Postpone coffee with a friend until a more recharged day. Put off the hard call until our words have been tempered by rest.

Some days are made for simple goals. To fly low, go slow, be at ease.

Then perhaps, like me, you’ll be reminded… Miracles can happen in this place. Amen.

Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest… ~ Psalm 55:6

QUESTION: Where can you allow a soul break by granting yourself permission to fly low for just a little while today?