Everyone knows that one of the most common cures for computer problems is to reboot. Many times this solves the problem and allows us to keep working. On most devices, this is just a simple button or, on the computer, three buttons (CTL ALT DEL). But what really happens when we reboot a computer is that dozens of commands get executed and housekeeping routines are performed so that the computer can start fresh without all the baggage of the previous runs.
This past week was a hard week at rehab. I suffered a stroke about 8 weeks ago, and this was the midpoint of a 10-week journey. It may have been mostly mental, but I was exhausted at the end of the week. I cut one of the exercising segments short and asked if I could do something easier at the last physical therapy session.
So I was ready for a reset this weekend. But just like the computer, I think we have some misconceptions about resets. We imagine it to be something magical or automatic, but in reality, it is a deliberate and intentional process.
One of the things I like to do on the reset weekend is take a bath. Since I had my stroke 8 weeks ago, I have had only two baths. I had to build up the strength and skill to be able to get into the tub safely. It is actually a series of steps that have to be executed carefully. I don’t have full use of my arm or leg on the left side, so every step has to be calculated and executed flawlessly for me to enjoy this necessary reset.
Many people have this misconception with things like meditation. They imagine that they would just close their eyes and it won’t happen automatically. But in reality, it is a practice that requires focus and intentionality. When done properly, it can be one of the best things spiritually and emotionally for us and gives us renewed life and focus–but it’s not automatic.
Throughout time, people have searched for the “silver bullet” spiritually that would magically solve all their problems and give them this reset that we all hope for. My practices these days are much simpler and involve things like solitude and rest, but they still require intentionality and practice.
I definitely want to hit the reset button this weekend, but I also understand that it will only happen if I am intentional about it and do the steps necessary to rest and relax and renew for the week ahead.
Rest and rest are important enough to do properly. Have a great week and weekend!
Be where you are, be who you are,
Karl Forehand
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