Happy Sabbath

Ahhh! The Sabbath, a day of rest. I think of this day as a day set apart from my regular routine—this makes the day restful. Yes, I feel free to rest my body with a nap. But a change is as good as a rest. I ask myself, “What can I do today that will bring me closer to my Savior?” Or, “What can I do today that will draw me closer to my family and friends?” Always, it comes down to using the day’s time wisely, with prudence, for this time is precious to me.

If my family is gathered around me, it is a good day or so I used to think. Now, being together is not enough for often they may be with me after church; but we are in front of the television watching an appropriate movie (I hope). But alas, being in the same room together does not mean we are interacting with one another—spending time with one another.

If any of my dear readers are like me, do you sometimes feel so tired that you are grateful for the T.V. to entertain so that you can catch a few winks? It has occurred to me that this is the routine. We eat together and then put on a good movie and in minutes the children are playing and the adults are mesmerized to the screen or sawing logs. I see this as my family’s problem—we’re together in body mass but interaction is limited on the Sabbath. I have even had different family members say, “Hey! It’s the Sabbath. I am relaxing.” How do we overcome this restful“ addiction?” I can only see one way. Resist with all the energy of our souls and force ourselves to get up out of the chair and become like the children (isn’t there a scripture about this?)—play with them. Everyone has to be united in this effort. Mom can’t be the only one to initiate this. Dad can’t do a solo. Today, unite! Establish goals for interaction with one another (husband and wife, father and child, mother and child, the whole family). Allow T.V. only for a really special program.

I would love to hear how you spend your Sabbaths. Perhaps someone could give me ideas on how to overcome our restful habits. Time with family is precious. I know this. I just want more quality and quantity time. How about you?