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As I prepare Easter dinner as I have for the past 26+ years I'm taken over by memories of growing up. I was snapping beans and I remembered a time when this "chore" was an everyday part of life. I can remember when snapping beans was a way for the older ladies to come together for gossip and reflection. I remember my grandmother having me snap beans or shuck corn as busy work when my mind was troubled. She would often say you need a little work to help solve a problem of the mind or heart. Her way of tackling a problem often worked and it still holds true today. A little busy work helps clear the mind and nourishes the soul.
It was a simpler time then. There was no internet, cell phones, or social media. You wanted to talk to someone you visited them that was social media of the time. An actual face to face conversation. There were no demeaning remarks left on platforms. Problems were often solved by fists or talking to the person you were angry with. You didn't air your dirty laundry online and women actually came together to help one another. The funny thing is that often women would speak ill of one another only in private yet they still managed to come together to help with a harvest, newborn baby, or to wish a newly married couple well. In times of need anger was forgotten and there was always a helping hand there to offer support when needed.
This quarantine and social distancing has made me realized that in my younger years this was the norm. The only time people got together in large groups was to celebrate, help with harvests, funerals, weddings, and church on Sundays. Your business was your business. As I've said it was a simpler time. Family meant everything and traditions were honored. It's a pity that things have changed so drastically that we have forgotten our values and traditions.
See busy work allows you deep thought and also allows memories to come flooding back. It has made me realize that my family traditions and values are still very much an important part of my life. Even when life gets busy and you feel like there isn't enough time in the day, remember that stopping and doing some busy work, whatever it may be, will give you a chance for reflection and is a way of remembing what is most important.
Happy Easter everyone. May God or whomever you believe in shine many blessings upon you and yours!
