“Never be in a hurry, do everything quietly and in a calm spirit.  Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems upset.”  Francis de Sales

It is Saturday night and I am alone for the evening at the Embassy Suites in Lynnwood, Washington north of Seattle.

I could have gone to dinner in Seattle with family.

However, I chose an evening of solitude.

My family was concerned that I was sad or down but really I just wanted to have an evening to refresh and renew my spirit after my long drive from Whistler, B.C. to Seattle.

I ordered dinner from room service and tuned into the movie “Sex & the City”.
I was lazy and indulgent.  It was just what I needed.

I realized early in my adult life that I need equal parts down time to balance the busy, involved times. I believe that the need for down time grows as I grow older.

The next morning I thanked my family for not resenting my need to “opt out” for the evening. Their empathy and love were true gifts.

To be able to take time out and not feel guilty was my gift to myself.