It Matters

I am a part of God's wonderful creation. I matter to him. And, because of that, I should matter to me.
These were my thoughts as I took a little time for myself a few weeks ago. It was during my winter vacation, but my kids had already started back to school. I dropped them off and decided to take a walk on a path near the school. It was a path that I have frequented before, but generally with a girlfriend, which means that we spend most of the time walking and talking, not paying attention to the surroundings.

  I had just finished reading Jessica Turner's book, Fringe Hours and was determined to make space in my day for this - for exercise and a for a chance to reconnect with God after a busy holiday season. To walk in silence, paying close attention to the beauty that was around me. It was a clear day and I could see the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The air was crisp and, as I walked, I breathed in the grace of God. Making space for him to overwhelm me. 
"The reason so many women today struggle to make themselves a priority is because they are trying to be everything for everyone."
As a mother, I often feel guilty about prioritizing time for myself. It seems like there are a million other things I should be doing. But, maybe the more accurate statement is, there are many other things I could be doing. This is how Fringe Hours begins, by exploring issues - like guilt - that keep women from pursuing self-care in addition to sharing practical tips on overcoming the obstacles we all face when trying to make time for our own passions and interests. 
I appreciated this realistic approach. This book is not a how-to or step-by-step guide to caring for yourself. Rather, it offers thought provoking questions - like, "What prevents you from investing in yourself?" "What things matter to you more than they should?" and "Are you treating yourself kindly?" - and gives practical suggestions for making changes that will impact your everyday life. 
"Making time for your passions will serve every area of your life well."
Nearly three years ago, when I began writing this blog, God initiated for me a journey of discovery. A process which has led me to so many more people, places and dreams that I could have ever imagined. Over time, God has broken down my identity - making it not about my roles and credentials, but about who I am in him. That transformation has been largely due to my focus on my own spiritual and intellectual self-care.
However, after reading Fringe Hours, I realized that, although I had improved my ability to take time for myself and make space for God, I had neglected one important aspect of self-care...physical - focusing on my health and taking care of my body. So, while I will continue to work on developing spiritually and intellectually - honestly, these are my passions - I also plan to take time to develop the physical as well. My walk a few weeks ago was the first step!

I LOVED Fringe Hours because it feels like it was written for me, for my friends and for every woman who has ever struggled to find time for herself. It was a great tool for exploration and self-reflection. Through reading this book, I was pleased to discover many areas of self-care in which I have been making progress in the past year. And, was given the freedom to recognize and celebrate what I have accomplished. Yet, I was also encouraged to discover the areas that still need improvement.
"By unapologetically making priorities that include taking care of yourself and pursuing your passions,  you are making an investment that no one else can do for you."
If you have ever struggled making the most of your "fringe hours," this book is for you!
Why? Because... You are a part of God's wonderful creation.  You matter to him.  And, because of that, you should matter to you.


*Disclosure: I received a free copy of Fringe Hours for the purpose of review.