“Somehow, we’ll find it. The balance between whom we wish to be and whom we need to be. But for now, we simply have to be satisfied with who we are.” ~Brandon Sanderson

Dear Universe,

Work has officially started back up and I’m happy about it.  I feel fortunate to have had such a nice, relaxing, long break with enough time to prepare for classes.

I know myself, though.

I know that I have a tough time balancing my life once work starts—I’ve written about this before.

But this school year I am determined.  I am determined to work hard while still maintaining a sense of peace mixed in with a little bit of pleasure.

It’s going to take some juggling, but I am hopeful that I can commute, grade tons of papers, plan interesting classes, teach inspiring ones, get to the gym, get to bed at a decent hour, spend quality time with family and friends, keep in touch with people far away, meditate, leisurely read, write, clean, cook, keep up with the blog, smile and just…. Sit back and relax now and then.

I am declaring it to you, Universe, because I realize I may need your help pulling this off, especially the sitting back and relaxing.

“Without balance, a life is no longer worth the effort.” ~Olen Steinhauer

Why can it be so hard to do something so simple?

I’m not sure.  I think it has something to do with the way my mind never stops, knowing that I have lists—yes, I must make my lists during work!—to tend to and wanting it all checked off.  Somehow “relaxation” never makes it on my multiple to-dos.

Until now.  Lately, I have been writing in the “other” essential things to ensure those get squeezed in too.  Yesterday I managed to do work, laundry and errands, but I also made time for the gym, a chat with my best friend and relaxing—watching a movie guilt free.

If writing in fun, relaxing, or spiritually fulfilling things helps me get to them, then that’s what I’ll do.

And if it gets to the point where that doesn’t seem to work, I hope you’ll keep me in check.  🙂

Thank you for all the positive things I have going on in my life.  As busy as it can get, I appreciate it all.

Much Gratitude,

A