For those who are not scheduled to work, today is a holiday we often overlook.
Today’s holiday is different than the tradition of Christmas and gift-giving celebrated by many yesterday. Today represents an opportunity.
As we awake this morning, many of our homes are filled with new stuff – toys, clothing, games, items to return, homemade keepsakes, and a lot of mess. The mess comes from open boxes, wrapping paper, used bows and ribbons, and a kitchen full of dirty dishes. Our sleep schedules are way off anything resembling normal for us and, in general, we are living with a lot of disorder.
Also, because we may not be formally working today, our schedules are not packed with meetings, visits, events, or other “have to” tasks and activities. There is significant flexibility with our time. For many of us, this represents an opportunity to nap, especially after we feast on left-overs.
Disorder and rest. That’s what today’s holiday is about.
We know from research that those who lives with some level of disorder score higher on attributes like creativity and personal flexibility. We also know that rest – including 20-30 minute naps during the day – can help reset our nervous systems, aids in memory recall, lessens stress levels, and enhances our general mood.
I hope you are able to conduct yourself appropriately during the Disorderly Conduct Holiday today. Embrace the mess. Take a nap (or two!).
Our world and the missions we serve need the most creative, flexible, healthy and positive version of you possible.
