Tuning In After Turning Off

A few weeks ago I told you all that as part of our prosperity transformation we were to stop reading—magazines, books, e-mail, etc.—for one solid week. Not only that but also to turn off, or severely restrict ALL devices— laptops, computers, radio, TV, iPad, Kindle, anything with an on/off switch. And, of course, no social media!
It was suggested by doing this we might find that the time we waste being distracted might better be used to say, go to the gym, take a walk, create something, connect with others or nurture our relationship with God.

The anxiety produced by the mere suggestion of no social media began to feel like panic. How would I continue every day without knowing where my friends were eating, shopping or playing? What about all those personality tests? They only took a few minutes after all and they could produce some amazing insights—like what Disney princess am I most like or what color is my aura?
And do without the news? We should all know what’s going on in our world. I could justify that I needed to turn on talk radio to find out if there were accidents on my route or if it would rain on my way to work which is 15 minutes from home.
But, I am the facilitator of the group, so I agreed to the detox.
I wasn’t perfect—shocking, right? I watched my weekly TV shows and posted on Facebook writings related to some things I was working on, then, sneaked a few peeks as I scrolled down the page. And, I did read out of three books I am currently trying to get through.
But I persevered and when the week was over I was pleasantly surprised to find that I accomplished so much: I worked out more, went on walks almost every day , took care of some neglected household projects, cleaned out and threw out and wrote and sent cards to friends far away. And I cooked up some new recipes.
Even when I was just quietly doing nothing. I found peace in my mind and soul. True peace. I could pray and meditate and connect with God in a fresh, new way—because I had time and I wasn’t overwhelmed and scattered or overloaded with junk in my head.
I’ve turned on again, but with an awareness of the power of the outside distractions that can keep me from relationship with God and others, truly focusing on the present and all that life has to offer.