Open Space

On some mornings it seems that thoughts have been imprinted overnight. As soon as I am conscious of thinking, there are words in my mind -- sometimes they are a continuation of yesterday's ideas...sometimes they are new. It is as if I've been having a conversation all night long, even while I was asleep. Thoughts are simply there, so I don't need to begin to think.

There are other mornings, though, when I am aware of the space that I experience before I think a thought. Oh, sure...I can say to myself "Time to wake up..." and actively engage in self-determined mental activity. But why? What could be more important than taking time to wait for God to guide me through open time and space? I delight in the blessing of "lingering" whenever it appears (I do believe it is a gift). On those mornings I practice a prayer of openness...it is a practice of simply waiting...receiving the day's beginning the same way that my body receives the touch of a gentle breeze or a warm beam of sun.

Be aware of when you are given a spacious morning. Resist the temptation to "get on" with more important things. Over time you will most likely realize that there are more open moments given than you choose to receive. Somehow we have learned that there are more important things to do than to bask in open, unthinking time and space.

Trust...Most likely God won't keep you there all day. Before too long, thoughts, impulses and ideas about what to "do" will emerge and will direct your steps. All that you notice will be clarified. You may find that you see your environment with deeper appreciation. You may sense new direction about a concern or question. Your heart may feel renewed compassion for a challenging person or issue that is facing you. You may feel a glimmer of deep emotion.

Express gratitude for what has been given. May the thoughts and actions of this day be blessed!

Note: to learn more about this practice, read "Receiving the Day" by Dorothy C. Bass