The Blessing of Ordinary Things

Allowing space for emotions

Dec 07, 2024

Whenever I get stressed, I do ordinary things: cook, clean, wash dishes, or do the laundry. Some might say it’s a coping mechanism or avoidance.

Actually, for me, it’s the opposite.

Ordinary things, like laundry or dishes, remove the distractions and allow whatever is bothering me to seep more deeply into my consciousness so that wisdom can work it out without the rationalization or judgment of the intellect.

It moves through me like a raging river and gradually becomes a gentle flow, allowing me to better navigate my feelings about whatever bothers me.

I’m not working on a solution. I allow whatever needs to emerge, even if discomfort is associated with it. I’m giving the discomfort breathing space rather than shutting it down.

There is a Zen quality to the ordinary events of our lives.

There is a potential to “clean the brain,” as my teacher calls it. Our culture calls it “wasting time.” I can see how it might appear unproductive when judged by the more-is-better standard. I’m thankful for the ordinary because it provides comfort, predictability, and sacred space in a world constantly barraging me with stimuli and distractions.

Next time you experience something stressful or someone or something causes strong emotions to appear, do something ordinary. Immerse yourself in that, particularly if it has a cadence or rhythm.

Rather than push aside your feelings, allow them to move through you and trust that giving them the space to flow will bring wisdom and peace.

Now, it’s time for me to do the dishes and vacuum on my way to processing a problematic event.

Blessings, dear reader. May you have a peaceful day.