Anita Ojeda I’ve discovered when you slow down, you see all sorts of amazing things. What have you discovered?
A Long Drive Home
“When will you arrive home?” Pedro asked me last week.
“Good question,” I answered. I’m leaving Tuesday morning, and I’ll be home before Wednesday night since I report for work on Thursday morning.”
“Stay safe!” he reminded me as we said our goodbyes.
“I probably won’t have cell service or Internet for most of the first few days,” I warned him. “I’ll check in each time I have service, so you won’t worry.”
We hung up, and I considered my route home once again. The coho and pink salmon had started their run in Fish Creek near Hyder, AK, so I planned on detouring off the Cassiar Highway. The last time I’d taken that route from Alaska to Arizona, the salmon hadn’t started their run yet, so the bears hadn’t arrived to fish in the creek.
I didn’t mean to act cagey about my arrival time, but I love nothing more than stopping for every wild thing and gorgeous vista on the 3,700-mile drive.
I’ve learned that when you slow down, you see all sorts of amazing things. As I age, I’m finally learning I don’t have to rush all the time, do all the things, and meet all my ridiculously high standards of accomplishments.
That recipe leads to unnecessary stress and needless self-flagellation. Ain’t nobody got time for that.
What Happens When You Slow Down?
I invite you to think about when you can slow down and look around you. Will Earth rock out of orbit if the dishes don’t get done while you gaze at the sunset?
If you go the speed limit instead of nine miles over, will you really arrive at your destination that much sooner? And if you do arrive a little later than expected, what will happen? Don’t get me wrong, I strive to arrive on time when someone depends on me. If no one cares when I arrive, I slow down and enjoy the journey.
Where and when can you build margin into your life? To practice what I advocate; I’ve taken margin this summer not to do my usual podcasts and blogs on self-care. I hope you’ve enjoyed the photo essays, the book reviews, and now, another photo essay.
I made it home in eight days and had an entire day to unpack and photograph hummingbirds before returning to work on Thursday.
I’d love to hear in the comments what you’ve discovered when you slow down. Improved relationships with others? A greater appreciation for Creation? New hobbies or better health?
Inspire Me Monday Link-Up
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Gorgeous views, Anita! I try to slow down and enjoy my garden each morning even though there are not many blooms right now. And I recently slowed down and visited my Aunt for a few days – sweet memories of watching the birds each morning.
Lisa Blair recently posted…Wisdom Harnessed with a Unique Perspective
Wow, amazing photos Anita, the landscapes are absolutely breathtaking. And I love the chicken in front of the Bakery 🙂.
We don’t have bears here in Australia. Of course our Koala’s aren’t bears although they have been given that title.
Since having Chronic health issues & having to retire early I have slowed down from necessity & have learnt so much. Life isn’t about the rush tha the world likes to keep us in but having time to appreciate God in His creation (like a ferry ride around the bay with dolphins riding the bow wave) & in enjoying His presence.
I can’t seem to find the Link Up button today…
Blessings, Jennifer
Tea With Jennifer recently posted…A promise Fulfilled
So beautiful, Anita! I’m glad you were intentional about slowing down, taking those stops that were meaningful. Once when I slowed down and took those stops, I missed an awful wreck just a few curves down. Sometimes God prompts those pauses for a reason. I’ve also learned that I cannot change time, to just stop the hurrying feel and enjoy the time until arrival. That has really reduced my stress. I’m glad it has yours, too.
Love these photos and such an inspiring way to start the day. I can’t find the linkup either as Jennifer said.
What an amazing drive you must have had!
Jeanne recently posted…Mosaic Butterfly Garden Chair
I feel refreshed enjoying your photos. Thanks for sharing your rest with us.
Debbie Wilson recently posted…One Way to Become Strong in Battle
Anita, what beautiful photos and a much needed message. My husband and I travel for our YouTube channel. And my favorite routes in our class B van are the scenic back roads.
Beautiful photos and message Anita. Slowing down helps me see God’s plan for my life, improves my relationships, and is so good for my body, mind, and soul.