Living Moments (Part 41) – Rest And Re-Create Yourself.

by Patrick Liew on July 13, 2012

During my mission trip in Kazakhstan, I had to do a last-minute presentation to a group of key leaders. Somewhat unprepared for the session, I did the only thing I could think of- I prayed.

As I prayed, a word flashed across my mind – ‘Rest’. I felt called to make it the theme of my workshop, to teach my attendees how to rest and to use it to start re-creating their lives.

It was not to be one of my usual thought-provoking, fun-filled, and hands-on workshops. In comparison, it was very low key and conducted with several interludes and time for reflection.

These were quiet moments when we paused and reflected about life.

I didn’t know what went through their minds but I could sense they were reconnecting to the core of their being even as they were connecting to our Creator.

In those restful moments, they must have discovered wisdom from above.

At the end of the session, the leader came to me with a big smile on his face. He told me, “That was a good session.”

I did well by doing almost nothing.

On reflection, I realised that one of the most vital things to do in life is to do nothing, otherwise known as rest.

Rest is by no means a sign of laziness. It is a key discipline that is needed to recharge yourself. You need to learn how to rest well and renew yourself so as to go to the next level.

Taking a rest is tantamount to sharpening the axe. It is recuperation to the body, soul and spirit.

I believe when you are at rest, your body will take the time to do its housekeeping. It will clear the cobwebs from your mind.

The heart will use this period to clear itself of emotional toxins. Your soul will find its centre and be better positioned to navigate through life.

Take a leaf from nature. When an agricultural land is well rested, the soil will be enriched. it will be able to produce a better harvest of fruit.

Even God took a day off on the seventh day while creating the world. He instituted rest and set an example by stopping work to appreciate His amazing handiwork.

Rest does not mean that you leave a vacuum in your mind. I believe that negativity abhors a vacuum and it will soon find a way to fill your mind.

To be well rested is to relax your muscles and quieten your mind. It is to lift your spirit to enjoy the beauty around you.

It is to be in awe and grateful for the wonders of life. It is to praise our Creator and be thankful for all the goodness within and around us.

Having a restful moment can be as simple as savouring the beauty of a flower or listening to a mesmerising piece of music.

For me, it’s finding a comfortable corner and reading a good book. In the evening of my life, I also find joy in journaling my thoughts and experiences.

To work and to rest are two of key preoccupations in life. As we journey through life, we need to learn to find rest in our work and work in our rest.

When we can find beauty and wonder and goodness in our work, we will find rest in it. Work will become an ongoing process of comfort, peace and happiness.

Rest well, my friend.

Go4It!
I hope this message will find a place in your heart.

By the way, I have also recorded other reflections.

Visit my Inspiration blog at http://liewinspiration.wordpress.com/

Visit my Transformation blog at http://hsrpatrickliew.wordpress.com/

Please read them and continue to teach me.

Life is FUNtastic!

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Rajan Vadakkepat.N.Nair July 15, 2012 at 1:21 pm

Dear sir,
yesterday i was attended your class at NACLi. it was FUNtastic experience to me. the most moment in the class was the redifinition of the READ and DEAR. I was astonished when i think about myself where was i standing with thease two words. I got a clear starting point / picture on my works to serve the community. Thank you.
Rajan.Nair,
Boonlay Place.

Patrick Liew July 16, 2012 at 9:40 am

I’m happy you found the seminar beneficial. Pl use the info to bless others.

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