Anyone who’s attended an old-time dance party knows the Limbo Rock. The popular dance asks us to shimmy ourselves below a bar without knocking it over.
Succeeding at the Limbo Rock doesn’t require the coolest moves. It requires the most dexterity and flexibility, which we also need to dance the Limbo of Life.
Literally, limbo means being between here and there, neither in nor out, on nor off, when we don’t know what’s next. Limbo is an uncertain, indefinite time of waiting.
Millions live in limbo these days, as our governments, institutions, and organizations attempt to determine new standards of safety and well-being. Perhaps, you’ve noticed, Blessed Reader, few of them agree about these standards. So, we’ve reached one of life’s waystations where we’re left to discern our new normal.
During this time, spiritual maturity helps us remain patient as we renew our faith and build our spiritual strength. Rather than fuss about waiting, force things to happen, or hide in terror, dexterity and flexibility let us:
- Enjoy time in stillness and silence. Sit, rest, gaze at artwork on the walls or flowers in the garden, pet the dog, cradle a child. If we believe that we aren’t doing anything, remember that all spiritual masters became that way because they knew how to be still and wait.
- Connect, at least weekly, with a prayer partner and BFF. Share gratitude for the present and imagine hope for the future.
- Honor our bodies. Get enough sleep, exercise, and nourishment. Take necessary medications. If we are ill, all our energy and attention turns to healing. If we’re caregivers in any capacity, we honor ourselves and others best when we choose self-care first. None of us can give from an empty well.
- Honor our feelings, especially sadness, grief, and confusion. Many of us are experiencing losses, so cry as needed. Tears aren’t a sign of weakness; they mean our hearts are open and we’re mourning something we love.
- Tackle a task we’ve avoided, especially if it will bring ease. If we need assistance, many professionals including accountants, attorneys, mental health counselors, and organizers are glad to work virtually. Research recommendations from trusted friends.
- Embrace a creative activity or learn a new skill. Countless online classes are available, and libraries and museums offer an abundance of free, virtual resources.
- Schedule playtime. No attempts to accomplish anything. Just have fun. Find board games the whole family can enjoy like Monopoly or Chutes and Ladders. Or use an old-fashioned deck of cards to play Canasta, Gin, or Go Fish.
- Appreciate the simple gifts of good health, safe shelter, comfortable clothes, and a full belly.
Overall, know that even when our lives seem to be “on-hold,” we still have the inner power and intuition to choose our next steps. Especially, remember that God in the midst of us is assurance and wisdom as we remain open to the best paths ahead.
© 2020 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved. Image by Ben Kerckx from Pixabay.
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