Writing has been part of my journey for a few years. I have notebooks, planners and calendars in piles. Paper, pencils and pens are the tools I enjoy using when writing. I have a calendar on my phone, but I don’t find it practical or user friendly. The need to write things and cross things out, brings a sense of clarity. Recently, I friend gave me a set of three notebooks to write my ideas and thoughts. The stash of notebooks range in color which have lists and ideas written throughout. Notebooks are never ending for myself. I always seem to find ones of various sizes and styles…lined, bulleted, spiral or perforated in my creative space.

In January, I seem to take that month off to retreat and ponder new ideas to write about for future posts. There is something about a new year to bring a sense of starting over, clarity or new beginnings. For myself, I try to use the new year to retreat into my thoughts, clarify my goals and just be. There is much to do in the day to day. It is necessary to take a break from time to time to just be. I enjoy quiet space. Quietness away from social media, my thoughts and the busyness of life is much needed. We all have the need to be on the go, but there is something valuable in taking the time pause.

When writing, sometimes an idea or topic comes to mind. At other times, I look at one of the many lists I have written and choose a topic. Sometimes I have writer’s block and need space to figure out the idea to write.

Reflections occur when the light shines or bounces. Sometimes I see my reflection in a mirror or in a shadow. The reflection mirrors or shines back a picture, an outline or an image. Reflections are associated with the current reality looking at the image from the current standing point. Over time, I have regarded reflections as a time to look inward and ponder things that have occurred. Seeing the bigger picture, while sensing a sense of gratitude while thinking ahead of future things is also a piece of pondering. Sometimes when reflecting, we don’t see the whole image. We see part of it or choose to see part of it.

Reflections brings a sense of gratitude and clarity. I thrive for the quiet moments. Sensing that peace and pondering of thoughts brings a sense of direction or purpose.

Seek opportunities to ponder. Focus on the overall reflection and not just the puzzle pieces scattered. Finding clarity with retreating, provides a sense gratitude and peace.