Lockdown 76

Lockdown Day 76 - 10 June 2020

Our walk today was a little later than usual and when we left home we were met by a gentle cool breeze and warm friendly sunshine. Although the weather report had predicted extreme cold, the 7°C and clear skies felt great. Throughout the morning the picture started to change with a strong wind, some dust and a steady cloud cover rolling in. It was as if the wind was tasked with blowing off all autumn leaves still hanging onto branches. Even my washing was floored and sitting in the sun was a challenge. 

This kind of wind has a way of affecting human behaviour. In nature its effect is evident, as the animal kingdom prepares to hibernate. According to Wikipedia, "Hibernation is characterized by low body-temperature, slow breathing, slow heart rate and low metabolic rate. It most commonly occurs during winter months." I can relate. It explains why I feel like the leafless trees being knocked about by the wind. 

It affects our daily routine in a big way. But I do think humankind has managed to cut out all hibernation for restoration purposes. By that I mean there is no grace for resting. And no understanding in a performance driven world for restoration. This needs to change if we are to survive abominable viruses and a boundary-less work world in future. Because, let's face it, our work world has entered our personal space and working at all hours have become the norm. 

When we go to a zoo to see an animal who is in hibernation, no one will complain when the zookeeper says they cannot be visited until spring because they are in hibernation. Everybody will understand and leave the animals in peace. We can learn a lot from nature. 

Although we don't need to hibernate because our food is available all year round, we can adopt a winter routine that can renew our energy and focus, bringing health and restoration for spring. 

Making choices in adjusting our routine is entirely possible as we have learnt during lockdown. It comes down to making the choice for longevity, brain health and work excellence. 

So when you feel the weather has changed your day, take a moment to draw up a new schedule to free up some much needed time, 

even if you take one hour midweekly apart from weekends. And when that hour arrives, exhale your deadlines and inhale the

"peace of God, which surpasses all understanding. " 

Then you think on whatever is "true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." (Philippians 4:7‭-‬8) 

The God of all seasons understands everything in a way we don't. So best we hold onto Him, because He's the only One who's got this.