This Energizer Bunny Quit

Even though I "run" on batteries, I cannot keep "running" forever. My "batteries" are nearly drained and I am in desperate need of a break. These last few weeks I have been so tired. It is a tiredness that will not go away with a good night's sleep, a massage, or a day off. I’ve had several indicators lately, too, telling me that it is time for a "time-out."

Several weeks ago, Pastor Jeff, centered his sermon around Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” As soon as he spoke, I felt as if the message was designed especially for me. Ever feel like that sometimes? He talked on the subject of finding rest the following Sunday, too. On July 20th, I accidentally read August 20th in my devotional book and Matthew 11:28 showed up again. Later that week, as I was driving down the road, I saw the verse again on a church billboard. It was clear to me that God was sending me a message! My family, friends, and coworkers have all noticed my weariness, too, and have voiced their concerns.

One friend in particular commented to me that mothers and wives take care of everyone and everything and mentioned that I could be the spokesperson for the Energizer Bunny! She also reminded me that I just had major surgery this year, lived through the horrors of Virginia Tech, take care of my husband, family, friends, our children’s friends, worry about them, run the household, work two jobs (my credit union job and finances for our business), volunteer and participate in church activities, travel, etc. etc. etc. And this is only the tip of the iceberg. So, I’ve scheduled some time off to get away from everything.

I feel guilty for being tired because my husband is exhausted, too, and works so hard for all of us. But, he knows that I am at my "breaking point" and understands my need for solitude and time to think with no distractions. He says he has his “vacation” on the golf course every weekend and is content with that. We are no good if we are both falling apart! One of us needs to be strong for the other.

So, this Saturday, I will pack up my SUV and head north to Ohio ALONE for nine days. I plan to spend some time with my Aunt Trudy, who lives in the country north of Columbus. I will also spend some time with my brother and relax by his pool at his house. I’ll have lunch with my mother-in-law and dinner with my father in the middle of the week. I also plan to attend two family reunions and a high school reunion. But the rest of my time will be spent in peace and quiet.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. . . .”