The last couple of days have been nonstop. From Thursday to Sunday afternoon, nonstop activity. To-do’s, cooking, plans, meals, tasks. Haircut to grocery shopping to watching a friend perform the lead in a play to time with family. All great stuff. It makes me smile to think of my full life.

I learned something about myself.

I can go, go, go, but when I get close to the edge, outside is where you’ll find me.

If my body and mind are tired but I’ve still been going, it takes being outside, in the breeze and sunshine that I finally breathe rest. I usually don’t think about anything, just listen to the animals, look at the trees or cars passing by. Oftentimes I’ll end up talking to God or letting my mind wander to past memories or future travels.

But it is outside where I find comfort, peace, and a moment of stillness.

It is in the midst of creation where I regain inner balance. I feel as though I think and see more clearly there.

Outside is where I feel small, where I can breathe, with enough space to express Thanks to God for life and people and a beautiful moment.

So, if there’s a chance you know I’m stressed or overwhelmed or flustered, there is a good chance you’ll find me our in the heat or cold. Especially if there is a porch swing.

“I need solitude. I need space. I need air. I need the empty fields round me; and my legs pounding along roads; and sleep; and animal existence.” Virginia Woolf

What about you, outside or inside?