Multitasking is a huge part of American society, but I think it can sometimes be to our detriment. Nowadays you can be in the middle of a text conversation while listening to music on your computer and have the tv on in the background. I am often guilty of trying to do four different things at once, usually in my car!
My wife is constantly trying to get my attention while I am focused on other things. She can yell my name or even snap her fingers, and I will not hear her. It is only after she says, “Kevin…Focus” that I usually snap back into reality.
I think that this problem is everywhere today. Husbands and wives live under the same roof but they are not in love. Churchgoers attend every Sunday service, but they are not connected to God. People seem to be very social, but they actually feel lonely. I think this occurs because even if we are physically present, we can be mentally and emotionally checked out.
When I am trying to do fifteen things at once, I am really only accomplishing fifteen things faster. I think that most people have the misconception that more, faster, and busier is better. Yet, I feel that when we slow down, check-in, and live in the current moment, then our lives become joyful. Being in a relationship with your spouse, with a friend, or with God, doesn’t require just checking a box, but requires honesty and authenticity with them. Maybe that means we need to apologize, or maybe it means we need to serve someone, or just simply spend time with them.
The holidays are already speeding things up, so this season, slow down and check-in. It will let us experience this season with joy.
