Practicing Sabbath in the Open Space

By Tim Nelson, Spiritual Director.

When asked to consider reflecting on my experience of practicing Sabbath, I was not sure how to respond. There were seasons in my life when Sabbath was clearer. For instance, when serving as a minister in congregations, the work often felt all-encompassing. I found that the ministry could take everything I had, and more, if I allowed it. I needed a day off to stay grounded and to tend to all the calls in my life. The years I spent as a hospice chaplain had a different rhythm – more of a Monday through Friday schedule. But still, I found it necessary to have time away from this beautiful, intense, deeply meaningful work so as not to become overwhelmed by my daily walk with those at the end of life.

Now, however, I am enjoying an open space of retirement (insert deep breath!). Some shape their years after work much the same as their work-lives – where they are busier than ever. Those in this situation may need to consider the same spiritual boundaries as one working – being intentional about taking a pause – a time away – tending to their lives.

But what does practicing Sabbath look like for those of us living in open space with few commitments or obligations? How can I practice pause when most every day has ample room with seldom more than one or two entries on the calendar? Certainly, being part of a spiritual community with its rituals, stories, and commitments to a shared ethic is part of how Sabbath can be practiced. Being with others in this way can help us navigate the big questions in life and help us feel anchored and less alone.

However, when I consider where I spend most of my time these days, practicing Sabbath in the open space is a simple and daily endeavor – being present and paying attention. They are moments woven into each day rather than holding to a dedicated day of Sabbath. Like watching the world awaken to a new day from my view on the patio with coffee in hand, or walking familiar paths through my neighborhood and meandering through woods and wetlands in nearby parks, or listening to the call of the red-tailed hawk high overhead. This open space has awakened my senses and allows me to listen more intently to the Divine, to the world and to people around me, making me more available to life and to love.

I resonate with what poet, Mary Oliver discovered:

I don't know exactly what a prayer is.

I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down

into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,

how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,

which is what I have been doing all day.

(excerpt from The Summer Day)

Practicing Sabbath in the open space may seem simple, but is actually quite profound. What could be more important than paying attention to our lives? Amid the noise that surrounds us, I hope we can all find a sense of calm and peace in simply paying attention in an open space.

I think I hear the patio calling my name. Peace to your Sabbath.