I have been craving a way to get my mind to slow down during this bustling holiday season. My “To Do” lists are a definite indication of my world being out of control – too much to accomplish in any one day.
What I was looking for was a book that could ease me into a more peaceful life. My first pick was The Art of Stillness – Adventures in Going Nowhere by Pico Iyer. It was a concise 66-page primer. I didn’t want to race through it. I wanted to absorb its essence.
Within each short chapter was a dynamic breath of fresh air to embrace silence. To allow yourself to focus on nothingness and feel the beauty of the moment.
The book has inspired me to start my day without a rush. To sit quietly in my chair, listen to the outside world waking up, feel grateful that I am here once again to place my footprint on this day.
The second book was recommended by my co-worker Kirsten: Christmas Days: 12 Stories and 12 Feasts for 12 Days by Jeanette Winterson. The short stories were just the right size for my scattered brain. I could focus on just one at the beginning of my day. Each story was followed by a recipe where Jeanette shares the historical lineage of say a Mince Pie or her own association with the recipe. These were short stories in themselves. Even though I won’t be likely to make any of them, I enjoyed reading how someone else got pleasure in it. ’Tis the season where we reflect on our own family traditions for food and comfort around our holidays.
– Pat
Howe's Book Valet 