By Byron Washington, Columnist
Enjoy Life
By Byron Washington, Columnist
I finished my doctorate in December 2021, and it came with a feeling of great joy. I was happy to be done writing and revising my dissertation. My dissertation focused on burnout in pastors, and I hope in the future to share and provide some insight from my research about how we can assist pastors in offsetting burnout. That being said, once all that was over, I took some time to enjoy life.
The last few years were focused on finishing that degree, and now it was over. So, I made it a point to take a minute to enjoy the moment. In contrast, everyone was scrambling to think about their new idea for 2022 or how to relaunch his or her business. I was spending time with my kids. We went sledding, made hot chocolate, and stayed up late watching movies. My weekends were often occupied by studying, writing, and classes while I pursued my degree. So, I decided to spend time with family and took a minute to focus on life.
With all that is happening with the pandemic, people can forget to enjoy life. Life has a lot of options and opportunities; enjoy them. During my “mini-vacation,” I did not plan speaking engagements, coaching sessions, or stressful work. It felt good to relax and take a moment before the hustle and run of the new year. Now I am not saying go out and be reckless. I am saying, use wisdom to find ways to live your life and enjoy the blessings God has bestowed upon you.
In 2022 find a way to enjoy life. Find a hobby, a new routine, or something that brings a smile to your face and joy to your heart. We have to slow down at some point to rest and be restored. We have spent the last two years running, hiding, wearing masks, COVID-testing, and so much more. Let God lead you to a place of rest. Let him lead you to a place of relaxation. Let him show you how to enjoy the blessings he has provided for you in this life. Psalm 23:2-3 reminds us that [God] makes [us] lie down in green pastures; he leads [us] beside still waters; he restores [our] soul.
During my downtime, I was informed of the passing of a few people that I knew pretty well. Their deaths furthered my resolve to take a minute to sit by the “still waters.” Finishing my degree and simultaneously hearing about people passing away reminded me of what the hymn writer said: “Time is filled with swift transition.”
My brothers and sisters exercise caution use sound judgment and wisdom. However, find a way to enjoy life. Do something that adds laughter to your day and joy to your week. In 2022, have your goals, your dreams, and your plans. However, make sure you leave room to laugh, smile, and reflect. Do not speed through this year racing to the next year and the next set of goals.
Today is a good day to start enjoying life.
