I like to keep Busy!

My main problem with spiritual practice is that I’m not slothful enough.  I can’t bare to sit quietly – even for 30 seconds. 

I tidy the house like a madwoman.  (although I’m not big on actually cleaning)  I keep my desk clear of any unfinished task, even ones involving dates two years in the future.

When it comes to meditation, prayer, mindfulness – whatever name you care to give to intentional time with God, Higher Power, Self, Nature – I resist. 

I’m a do-er.

My latest attempt at slower paced spiritual practice involves staying in bed.  The alarm goes off at 6:00.  I shut it off and roll over to connect with God, reminding myself of a 10th century Mozarabic hymn,

“Though bodies slumber, hearts shall keep their vigil.”

I’m not really sleeping, but I doze off for a few minutes, then wake and remember my meditation/prayer/sloth. 

Accompanied by pillows, blankets, birdsong and the warm body of my husband, this is a fine prayer indeed.  Sometimes I invoke the name of the Holy Trinity and fall back asleep a third time.

If it is Saturday I can spend well over an hour in spiritual practice.