I have been on a lovely vacation which was filled with a lot of nothing.
Yesterday, my host said, apologetically, "But we haven't done anything!" And I grinned and said, "Exactly. It was wonderful!"
I do love going to the beach, and exploring little shops, and finding amazing gardens and wondering through cemeteries. I enjoy scenic gondola rides and hikes (walks) up small mountains and white water rafting (okay, not really that one) and checking out dance clubs. I am happy to explore new foods and local pubs. It's all part of that "world traveler/adventurer" label I enjoy wearing sometimes.
But when I think vacation, when I think "gotta get away", what I'm getting away from is the frantic do, do, do! Projects for work and projects for keeping the home in peace, and food and exercise and spiritual attention, and am I answering all of my emails (always a no) and am I meeting all of my obligations - which are self imposed, chosen, enjoyable! but are still obligations.
So these days, when I go on vacation - even though I can't "get away" from the news or the emails or the nagging feeling I left something undone - I want to do... nothing.
Granted, nothing for me does mean some emails or checking in at work; but it's in a relaxed environment and it's totally my choice and, best of all, it's in the company of those I'm visiting. The BEST vacations are the ones where we're all just sitting around - or puttering around the house - doing our thing. We flow together to play games and eat and converse; we flow away to nap and read and exercise and work. We share tidbits of the day, random delights and esoteric thoughts. We're just being. Together.
This last vacation, I didn't even spend much time contemplating the beauty of the world. I mean, I sat outside (I was outside when I started this post) and I listened to birds and watched the clouds and felt the wind. But there was no marveling, no deep thoughts (except, you know, when I'm writing), no active communing with nature. I just sat there at let it all wash over me. Just being.
This has been a truly lovely vacation. And I am very grateful to everyone who just hung out and existed with me. I love you.
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