Frank Lloyd Wright, an American Architect, once said “No stream ever rises higher than its source.” I find that quote both profound and practical, reminding me that we can be both stream and source. Stream as we rest and receive. Source as we love and give the best of ourselves to others.
A long time ago, I had the privilege of visiting Fallingwater, a Pennsylvania home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for the Kaufman family who were business leaders and philanthropists in Pittsburgh. The residence was built partly over a waterfall and is preserved today as a museum. It was built as a weekend retreat, yet it is a work of art and a marvel of architecture. Wright knew the power of living within nature and harnessing its peace.
We may not live near a waterfall, or even a stream, but we can still feel its effects. We can find a quiet place, inside or out, and be still. We can close our eyes and use our illustrious imagination. The trickle among the silence heals.
I know it’s hard. I can relate. You see, more times than not, you will find me on the go. Running here, or running there, moving from one task to another. I have heard it said that ‘movement is medicine.’ I do believe that, to a certain extent.
I am purposing to slow down, to choose a more methodical path. It’s a challenge, for sure. When I accomplish this feat though, or even come close, I can finally exhale. The days seem longer and that is what I am aiming for in this season.
In this quest to live life unhurried, I am revisited by my childhood feelings of boredom. I recall the ‘what should I do?’ question followed by the ‘what should I do now?’ question. There was an endless cycle of searching for one means of fulfillment after another. As a kid, that search seemed to extend round and round until my head hit the pillow hard at bedtime.
In those moments of youthful boredom, dreams were birthed, and ideas came to life. Astronaut, Doctor, Teacher, Mommy - our career choices were limitless back then. Not so much now, pushing 60, it seems.
As the years go by, we become more acutely aware that we are not promised tomorrow. I sense that now more than ever and cherish each day.
So, when downtime comes your way, treasure it. Curate your likes, finetune your hobbies, or perhaps sleep. Maybe that is what our mind, and body needs.
The inventions, the novels, the songs - they will come. Strengthen yourself as a source by way of the stream. And when you tire, repeat.
Thank you so much for reading Ever After and considering a paid subscription. I appreciate you, my readers. Thank you for helping to support our family and my dream.
Love!
Stephanie
