So, here we are in January, just out of the annual national binge that Christmas in America has become. Lots of consumer stuff out there and we are exposed to fantasies of piles of beautifully wrapped presents ranging from tiny objects to expensive cars and furniture. I remember in elementary and middle school that my friends would talk about what they got for Christmas and I was jealous of the kids who got so many presents.
Now I know that all of those things and consumer products can't add happiness. Sure, some are fun. I like having some of those items. But, happiness? That seems to come from intangibles that can't be wrapped and put in a box: kindness, community, common purpose, actions for social justice, loving friends and family, purposeful work that makes a difference, a sense of legacy. How much is enough? What is that sweet spot that allows me to moderate, balance and know that things are just right? Recently I was in Chicago and ate at the Kronor Svensk Restaurant swedishbistro.com/ in the North Park neighborhood. Wonderful and simple fare! All of the servers wore the above t-shirt that celebrates the Swedish concept of Lagom (La-GOOM) often translated as: just right, perfect, no need for more. This seems to me to be a profoundly spiritual concept. How can I rest in the just rightness of this moment that the Holy One has offered me? How can I stop the rat race of wanting and needing yet one more thing and settle into the beauty of now? Swedish culture offers me this gift of reflection on cold, almost Scandinavian days and nights as we move into the New Year. Yes, I look for 2019 to be just right, enough.
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March 2023
AuthorDan Hoffman is an Indianapolis USA based spiritual director, supervisor of spiritual directors, and workshop/retreat leader. This occasional blog discusses things he is thinking about and wants to share. Comments are always welcome. |