Making a Project

"First of all, it is certainly very hard not to have such thoughts. Recognize them and let them pass. Secondly, keep doing simple work that can attract your attention. It is good to be interested in different types of rocks, in the songs of the birds, in the varieties of trees, etc. but don't make a project out of it. Just enjoy it and be present to where you are and what you are doing. And, finally, try to find your own rhythm. Ask yourself how much you can [hike] without it making you too tired to pray. It will take you a while to find your balance." - Nouwen's spiritual advisor

When I was reading about the control of thoughts in The Genesee Diary, I, too, wondered how to deal with my daydreams. Nouwen's spiritual advisor while at the monastery suggested enjoying nature, which fits in well to where I am at these days. I started thinking up all these things I should write about what I'm noticing in the forest (this is actually when I decided I should start my own blog). I ended up with this huge list of forest notes, such as beauties of moss, different rocks, birds, etc. All of a sudden, I realized I was turning this "simple work" into a project! I was no longer present to where I was, enjoying where I am at when I am there; I was thinking about the future (again!) - part of me hoping people would be impressed by my blog entries. Oh what a wretched soul am I! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God - through Jesus Christ our Lord!