by Dace Starr
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My relationship with time is shifting
We are becoming friendlier
Asking less of each other
We both know that there are 24 hours in a day, 60 minutes in an hour
But these mathematical calculations have lost their pulse
The day is fluid and unregulated
Like the clocks, the white cubes of my calendar stare at me in bewilderment
Obligations and expectations untethered and loosened
Lists of projects that should be done during this unexpected sabbatical fade
And the scolding voice urging me to use this time wisely mumbles in a half-hearted, weary whisper.
No more striving
No more self-improvement
Like the richness of a soup stock that has simmered gently all day
I am savouring the essence of unhurried comfort
I have food in the fridge, books on my shelf, birds in the trees,
Music, movies and friends on the wire.
And shapeless time to enjoy this abundant simplicity.
Dace Starr participated in the Callanish retreat in November 2014 and continues to benefit from the wisdom and kindness of others who attend Callanish gatherings. She has worked for 37 years in libraries across the country, and lived in 21 different locations. She now lives more simply and peacefully - meditating, reading, writing, singing and occasionally cooking with her son.