As spring is peaking around the corner, many universities – including one at which I teach have gone on break. These week-long vacations from school are intended to be restorative; an opportunity for students and faculty to recharge their batteries before coming back to finish their semester strong.
Some will board planes seeking sunnier destinations and dispositions – after a winter of our collective discontent.
Rather than boarding a plane for a week, I instead drove to the beach for less than an hour. I’m in the Northeast and it is definitely not swimsuit weather. In fact, the beach I visited turns into a dog park during the off season.
Still there is something restorative about looking out at the vastness of the ocean – whether you’re surrounded by frolicking children or dogs. In fact, their behavior is quite similar. They run around unabashed, jumping in the water and retreating when the tide rolls in. They play, dig holes in the sand, occasionally check in with their parents and appear to not have a care in the world.
As I looked out at the water, listening to the lapping of the tide against the shore, I felt so small in comparison. The awe of an ocean has that effect on you. Your problems dissipate – even for a fleeting moment.
I smiled as I watched the dogs play with one another. At one point, one furiously dug his proverbial hole to China while another implored him to stop and play. When he obliged and came out of his hole, his friend jumped in to take his place and began to dig furiously himself. I laughed out loud.
Other dogs came up to me intermittently to say hello and get a quick pat on the head before running back to their pals. Positive energy transferred from one being to another. More smiles.
I sat in a chair for a few minutes, and walked along the shoreline for a few minutes more. In total, I was probably there for less than twenty minutes. While the sun bore down, basting my pale skin, it was still on the chilly side and I dressed for the temperature I wish it was instead of what it actually was.
Still those twenty still minutes made all the difference.
My problems did not go away but for the rest of the day, slights hurt less. Annoyances were less annoying. Smiles came more easily and instinctively. I felt more grateful for my place in this world and all I have been blessed with. I was more patient, giving and kinder to myself and others.
Coincidentally, I had stumbled upon these words by Dipendra Tamang earlier in the week: “Even the tide retreats/not in defeat /but to gather its strength. /You are allowed to pause./You will return stronger.”
Of course, it would be great if we all could take week long retreats at the onset of spring – or every season for that matter. But it doesn’t require nor should we wait for a week-long hiatus to recharge and replenish our strength. It can happen in smaller doses, in any setting that brings us wonder, awe or joy, at any time of the day or point in the year when our need beckons.
Ironically, sometimes we just need unplug for a little bit in order to recharge.
If you need it, I hope you find a place and a few minutes to do so this week.
Recommendation of the Week. I find the music of George Winston beautiful and nourishing. Check out “Joy” and see if you feel what I mean.
Please share with someone who might benefit from a little recharge.