Thrive

We all like to know what to expect.  We schedule events on our calendar.  We create agendas for meetings.  We watch a movie trailer or read a book jacket before committing to watching or reading.

As much as we might like surprises we also like to plan and predict and derive comfort from routine.

I returned to work today.  I moved slowly and carefully, but had no problems doing my job.  My inability to bend, twist or lift just made the day more interesting.  My second grade students were amazing.  They were happy to see me, happy to help with the lifting, moving and carrying of items.  One student was carefully watching me to make sure I didn't bend.  I could hear "You're bending!" throughout the day.  I wasn't bending, but she was going to be watching just in case.

The most surprising comment I heard came from an intelligent little girl. She said she was glad to be back to the normal schedule.  I don't know what kind of schedule the students had when I was gone.  They had the different subjects at the appropriate times, but there was probably less predictability.  Within each subject there are a set of routines I go through that the students can count on.  They can be comforted by them.

Her comment reminded me how comfortable a good routine can be.  It definitely helps little ones.  I know it can help us adults also.  If we know that at this time we will be doing this thing,, we can count on it, plan on it and rest knowing that part of our day is set and sure and stable.

My dog whines at 6 am everyday for breakfast.  She knows it's time for a walk at 4 pm and she whines for dinner at 5 pm.  We can tell time by our dog's behavior.  There is no such thing as weekends and holidays.  She wants her schedule no matter what.  It always takes months for her to adjust after a time change.  The only exercise I was allowed to do after my back surgery was walk.  I tended to walk around 2 pm each day with her.  It only took her a few days and she began whining and watching me at 2:00, ready to go for a walk.

Which part of your day has a comforting and predictable routine?  Which part of your day needs a comforting and predictable routine?  A child who knows what to expect and when to expect it feels safe.  They don't have to worry about anything except living in the moment, not concerned about the future expectations.  Being adults doesn't mean we are exempt from this need.

Since our girls were babies we have chosen to stay home at Christmas.  We don't travel out of state to see family.  It isn't because we don't want to see family, it is because we want to protect these peaceful days for our children.  We want them to wake up in their own home and be with their parents and be comfortable and at peace. 

There are plenty of busy days in our lives, there should be some moments we protect.  There should be some routines we keep to remain at peace and to give ourselves the freedom to thrive in a safe environment.