Still. Be still and know...
The adjective still, according to Webster's Dictionary, is defined as "motionless, making no sound, silent, quiet."
As an adjective there are 7 definitions, as a noun 2, an adverb 7, as a conjunction 1, as a verb with an object-3, as a verb without an object-1, and let's throw in how it's used in the idiom, "still and all." Whew--, still has 22 variations of meaning-it's a busy little word!
The word still has been in the English language since its origin from Old English times when it was used as a noun, "stille"--it evolved into a verb later in the Middle Ages, "styllen." After all the hundred of years, we know what the word means in all its many forms, but how often do we sincerely practice the fullness of its essence in our lives?
My grandma Beavers would make me laugh. I could just quietly watch her for what seemed like hours. The way she emanated her facial expressions, her southern scribbling of a voice, and the way she'd move her hands when she talked will be forever seared in my memory.
She had this phrase that was simple yet stuck deep within my pores each time. If I and the other kids were clamoring with needless noise when she was trying to listen to something on tv, or someone on the phone or on the porch...she'd say, "Be, still--be still!" Not only were we instantly silent but our motions came to rigid halt.
I've been to many places that embodied a potential for the absent of sound: cathedrals, churches, natural sanctuaries, and areas in libraries. The moments of unruffled silence and tranquility were like a placid pond...calm, refreshing, and beautiful. I was singular with a hushed aloneness. It was not scary, in fact the time was rejuvenating in both mind and spirit. It allowed for the clutter to be cleared for a more concentrated path to clarity - a release--even if it was temporary.
I understand, whether you are a student or an adult, that we find ourselves being overwhelmed and busy with "needless noise." It seems like there are days and even weeks when there is a constant strand of blaring, unnecessary busyness. It's usually things that we ultimately waste time on. Do we really have to check email, texts, social media outlets at the strike of a 'free-unencumbered' minute or two? Do we make time for or even know what it's like to enter a sanctuary of stillness?
With the holidays coming up I hear people say practically every year, "I love Thanksgiving," or "Christmas is my favorite holiday!" And then they tag it with: "Yeah, but it's so busy--not sure if I'll get everything done."
Reminder to self: Find the quiet fortitude to embrace the art of stillness.
Where is the actual, conscious, 'listening' part to the subtle nuances of the season? Find a place to turn off the din of the outside world and experience a silence, a quiet - where thoughts, ruminations, and reflections of what is truly significant can gently abide.
When the harried pace and "needless noise" begin to asphyxiate simple peace and solace, I will desperately seek that place that brought some peace...I will hear the simple voice from the past admonishing..."Be still...be still..."