As a pastor, wife, mother, and wannabe fibre artist I constantly find myself saying one of the following: “I don’t have enough time to….”, “If I just had more time”, “I ran out of time”, etc. But lately it has occurred to me, and yes, I’ve heard it said, that we all have “just enough time.” So, this year, while I am on sabbatical/leave of absence in order to do some creative work and to get back into physical shape, I have decided to stop saying those above comments and to start saying things like, “I didn’t choose to take time for….” and “I am going to take time for….”.
It is of course obvious that we all have the same amount of time each day. How we use it is our choice. We don’t know how many days we’ll have, though, so it makes sense to use the time we do have well, and not to lament not having enough time. So I am taking time that I already have to read, write, do needlework, quilt, knit, walk my dog, bicycle with my husband, talk to my daughter on the phone or via e-mail, go for drives and go hiking.
When I return to work I will still take time to do those things. This blog is part of how I will hold myself to accountable to take the time for what’s important. I encourage anyone who reads it to recognize that there truly is “justenoughtime” to do the things you really want to. Oh, yes, and add changing the world to that list!
January 2009 Update:
I’ve been back at work in Virginia for 6 months now, as the pastor of a church of about 250 members. It’s a lot harder to fit in all those things I want to do, especially since I’ve just begun work on a Doctor of Ministry in The Arts and Theology. I’ll be stretching myself even further as I explore a wider range of the arts and how to use them in ministry and life. But I’ll still be working to maintain the balance through this blog, which has indeed helped over its first year to keep me on track and more productive and reflective.
July 2009 Update:
I’ve added a new header which is a portion of an original hand-dyed and hand-stitched table runner I created while in NM. As a result of my D.Min. I’ve been stretched to start working in mixed media, acrylic, and watercolor (not to mention drama, music, and all the arts). I still love working with fiber and textile, but I’m really having fun with the new media.
i was just thinking about this
I have just returned from a mini retreat – alone and out of my element. I needed to “get my wits back” after closing down a small retail business into which I had poured my heart, soul and financial resources. I had no agenda (for my retreat) other than to meditate/pray, journal, do needle art and try to break the old habit of saying, “I don’t have time.” Amen, Rev Deb, your blog is just we need.
Hi Debbie and John,
I spoke with Dee this morning. As usual, I was anxious to hear about your family and its “doings”. It sounds as though you’ve really enjoyed your Taos (a town we like a lot) home and what the area has to offer. It’s exciting to me that you (Debbie) are doing such wonderful art and craft work. Keep it up!
May you two and Larissa have a good and healthy 2008.
Marv Lubeck
I’m a friend of Cindy’s and she is sitting on my couch explaining your blog. I think it is beauthiful and what a great idea. Hope your weather is warm – we are expecting some snow flurries tonight –
Have a great weekend.
Cindy says HI!!!
“Just Enough Time” is a great title for your blog and describes your journey nicely.
I think you already are a “Fiber Artist.” Enjoy your sabbatical exploring, developing, imagining, creating and having fun.
Fannie
What an absolutely fabulous commentary! Gives me something to think about the next time I bemoan the lack of hours in my day!
I am very glad I found your blog. Your blackwork piece is gorgeous and I really enjoyed reading!
Blessings,
Julie
I just stumbled upon your site because I was looking at images of Mother Mary and one of your pictures of the “station of the cross” appeared. I was immediately drawn to it. I was speaking to a very special man today and he spoke of the stations of the cross. I really enjoyed taking a look. Your mandalas are great too!