Article November 22, 2004 Issue

Inspired—not mired

By Pam Kissock

with the usual chaos—extra traffic, congested stores, people stressed out, impatience everywhere, especially on the road. Although I'd vowed not to let it get to me, somehow I fell into the trap.

One day I noticed my mounting frustration while in a long checkout line. Then, as I left the parking lot, I began wishing the person in front of me were a better driver—you know the routine. But something made me stop right there. Not by halting the car, but by halting those thoughts of impatience and stress. I took a deep breath and decided to be inspired, rather than mired in the holiday rat race.

That really got me thinking about the true spirit of the holiday season and, in particular, about inspiration. The importance of looking for something good that was going on right there, rather than at the turmoil, became clear. This is a way to pray. Being still in this way (no longer rushing around either physically or mentally) makes room for the peace that comes from God.