A Season of Renewal

On this past Sunday, Christians celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. It is no coincident that this holy day occurs amid spring–a season of rebirth and renewal, when one might see a tree bedecked with beautiful blossoms during an afternoon stroll or listen to a bird singing brightly during the early dawn. Both simple, yet powerful experiences hint that a better day might lie ahead. Amid the violent chaos of reality in this present moment, the promise of spring and Easter offers a healing balm.

I imagine that most thoughtful people are searching for a relief–if only temporary–from the onslaught of depressing news and the invasive digital landscape. Embracing the detachment and solitude of a monastic might offer the surest method of retreat. Although such a radical option is unrealistic for most people, choices still remain.

Recently, I began striving to be mindful of my computer usage and to pick up my smartphone only when necessary. (Yes, I know that I am sharing this writing on the Internet.) While sipping my morning tea, I read several passages of Scripture and noodle in my notebook. Before retiring to bed at night, I spend a solid thirty minutes with a novel. Because of this committed immersion in words and ideas, I feel that my mind is slowly, yet steadily growing stronger and clearer–resembling the physical and incorporeal organ which it was in a world before constant connection and tireless distraction. In this state of intellectual and imaginative intentionality, I believe that I am entering my own season of renewal. A personal spring.