We are all tired. We are all dismayed. We are all distracted.

Those who are trying to get the attention of people, to invite them to events, to remind them of commitments, to engage them in conversations, are having a hard time.

And so we all try harder and crash harder and wonder and wander.

It feels like we can’t bounce back like we once did.

I get it. I just spent a couple days with a lot of peopling. Great people, great conversations, not much energy left.

But you and I are not invincible. No one truly expects us to be. Or should. But we need some rest, this weekend, in the nooks and crannies where we can.

Send one fewer tweet or text. Watch one fewer show. Have one fewer argument with a family member. Mark one fewer debate victory as “essential”. Create one fewer obligation. Say no to one more option. Say yes to one more affirmation.

Because, as the poet wrote,

There are many who say, “Who will show us some good?

and then offered this response:

    Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!”
You have put more joy in my heart
    than they have when their grain and wine abound.
In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
    for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.

With a little real rest and restored perspective, we can bounce back.

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Written in 2019.