As August continues to run its course faster than we intended, we're starting to panic. Have we accomplished everything we wanted to this summer? Have we checked off all the items off our summer bucket list? Realization sets in that the answers to these questions are both no, and we start cramming these next few precious weeks with activities. With jobs to work, friends to see, and now the impending start of school looming over our heads, it's easy to get swept up in the end of summer madness. But taking a moment to pause and take a break is beneficial than cramming our schedules with elaborate exploits. Here are a few reasons why silence is necessary:
1. The Calm in the Quiet
- Let's be honest: now that August has come, everything is chaos. With attempts to see friends one last time, last minute vacations, off the grid adventures, and repacking for school, there isn't a moment to breath in before you're out the door again. Fit a moment in your schedule to catch your breath. Taking a deep breath will help you recollect yourself, and all those thoughts racing through your head will slow down to an easy stroll. That deep breath will keep you calm in the chaotic world you're inhabiting, and that's all you need.
2. Better Organizational Skills
- Blasting your music while packing for school is a great way to pass the time, but sometimes you're so caught up in your own awesome dance moves that you don't realize you're forgetting many an item. Did I pack this? Do I need this many or that many? I think I put this in my suitcase, or was it my dresser? Soon what started out as a packing party is now a failed fiasco of forgotten clothes. Turn off your music for a few minutes to organize your items, see what you need, see what you've already packed, then continue on practicing your moves for the tables at Red Lion.
3. A Moment to Reflection
- Now, I'm not saying to go mediate in your zen garden at sunrise (though doesn't that sound delightful?), but take a moment to reflect on the present and the upcoming school year. Moving back onto campus and immediately starting classes and homework equals no time to figure out what you want to accomplish over this next year, so get a head start and ponder on what you want to achieve. How can you improve upon yourself now? What goals do you have? Anything you've always wanted to do? Reflect on what you've already done this summer, and what you can do this school year. Silent contemplation will lead to a calmer, more focused start of the year.
As Francis Bacon once said, "Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom." Amidst all the plans and events and pandemonium that is the beginning of August, realize that you are allowed take time to bask in silence and take some time to think and reflect on yourself. Turn off your car radio, take a quiet stroll, lay on your bed, and see that silence is the eye of the storm.
