Thankful for Sabbatical

PORT COLBORNE, ON – Thank you for praying for my sabbatical time over the months of July, August, and September. Now that it's October, I'm easing back into my normal schedule.

To be honest, I was afraid to start my sabbatical. I thought it would be hard to fill the time, so I made lists of things to do in hopes that it would be enough to keep me busy.

Even so, I decided I had no other choice. I was exhausted and running on fumes. I couldn't keep going that way. I had to pray and hope that the sabbatical would 'do its work'.

In the first couple of weeks, I struggled a lot with not being productive. I was frustrated with myself that I couldn't get more done, but I was too tired to do the things I thought I should be doing.

I spent almost a month in Manitoba with my family and friends, and it was just what I needed. I went fishing and on a mini vacation. I built wood projects, visited friends, and just hung out with my family. After about a month and a half of sabbatical, I noticed progress. I was playing with my friend's kids and could actually enjoy myself (whereas before the sabbatical, I was zoned out in tiredness). Praise God!

It was a blessing to spend dedicated time with God during a silent retreat. I can honestly say the last three months have done me good. I feel more rested and back to myself than I did when I started. Most of the things on my sabbatical 'to do' list didn't happen. I'm okay with that. I did what I needed to do and it turned out well.

What am I taking away from this sabbatical?

• Doing 'nothing' is sometimes a good thing. So is slowing down.

• The importance of being present (it's hard though!)

• Finding ways to pursue what gives me life

• Trusting the process (God is at work)

• Praise: For a restful sabbatical

• Praise: That my team did well while I was away

• Pray: For adjusting back into 'work mode' while still finding ways to rest

• Pray: For upcoming travels and work projects