Restless Days

Don't get me wrong--I do relish my retirement!  It amazes me to be able to relax and feel contentment, without any sense of guilt, or need to accomplish.  There is a lot to be said for serenity, and enjoying the beauty and simplicity of life.

 But I will confess that from time to time I do have days of restlessness.  I don't like the restlessness,  but it does come occasionally, unbidden, an unwelcome, unwanted visitor!  If I had to analyze it,  I'd say it is mostly a feeling of wanting to have somewhere specific to go, something to do, some reason to get dressed up, and go out into the world.

This morning, in a happenstance conversation with an acquaintance in the grocery store,  I learned that a congregational church not far away, is being served by an Interim, who is not going to be there any longer.   My urge for a few moments was to call them, and see if they are looking for another Interim!  If I suddenly were to find myself in such a position, I'm sure that I would soon be longing  for my complete freedom to come and go as I wished, rather than being tied down.   I hope the day will come when I can experience feelings of restlessness, without the next thought being about serving a church.  That just seems to be my default position, that thing to which my mind first grasps, when I am restless and looking for something to do.

 Begone, restlessness!  Stop pacing at my door!
Take your agitation and leave it in someone else's mind.
You're not welcome any more.