soul care - take time to replenish

"If you really want me to. But, if I go with you, you better hear me saying, 'I love you desperately much,' through every minute of that event."

That was my response when my husband asked me to attend a reunion for our university last week, an evening occasion inviting every person from every class who ever graduated from Southeastern University.

Nothing sounds more daunting to me than walking around "mingling" for two hours and making small-talk with about 500 of my (totally not) closest friends. I used to think I just wasn't a "people person". And I wondered why the Lord would call someone like that to ministry. What was He thinking!?

But then, I realized I absolutely love people! I just like to enjoy them one at a time, with real, deep, meaningful conversations. I sincerely enjoy spending relaxed, quality time with one or two people who know me (and I know) well.  And finally, I discovered, I'm an introvert! I love people AND I love being alone! During my twenties, my greatest fear when thinking about marriage was that I'd never be alone again. Which was very difficult to understand when coupled with my lasting and persistent desire to be married.

My weakness? A large room, full of people I only sort of know. I've learned to cope; I'm quite used to "working a room" now. I can put the brave face on, meet and greet, hold conversations, and have a few laughs. But, I have a limit. One hour or two of that sort of interaction, and I feel like I've worked a 12 hour day and I want a cup of coffee and a nap!

Crazy, I know. And if you're an extravert, you're probably tempted to think, "You're pitiful." I applaud your people-given energy! In fact, I need you in my life so much I married one of you! He balances me out. Especially in moments where he pushes me to go to a reunion and actually enjoy myself.

The truth is, if you're an introvert, you often don't fit the mold. Meeting new people might be anxiety-laden, making small-talk is laborious, and the daily grind can be more tiring for you than for those who get energy from being with others. Our world is busy. And, no matter how contrary it feels, we all will spend more time out-and-about, socializing, than we will spend doing what feels natural - being alone and traveling the deep recesses of our souls while reflecting.

So, introvert, you've got to be especially diligent about replenishing. Replenishment is important for every soul God created. It's a part of soul-care. And I got some great information from a few ladies in ministry while in Florida last week that I was so excited to share with you.

Here're a few ideas for replenishing the tank:

Get in the Word.

Nothing will refresh a depleted soul like the salve of God's words to us. Get your coffee (or tea), close the door (even if you only have 5-10 minutes), and breathe in His words. 

Do something different. 

Break from your norm a minute! Stroll a store (alone, of course;). Drive a different way home or make a loop. Walk a new trail. Get out of the routine and reflect somewhere new.

Take a personal retreat

Do that thing most people around you would consider torture. It's been 5 or 6 years since I did this, but GO AWAY! By yourself! My first experience was forced. My best friends actually picked me up at work, blindfolded me, drove me an hour, and dropped me at a resort. Bag packed, separate vehicle left behind for my use. And nothing but Jesus, me, a journal, and a pool for 24 hours. Perfect. (Sidenote - if you know an introvert who seems particularly overwhelmed, this may be just the ticket to ease the load!)

Talk to a friend.

Sometimes, just telling the story from beginning to end and hearing a fresh perspective will lift your heart and make room for the next thing. And even if nothing sounds more daunting or intimidating than trying to say what's swirling in your heart, give it a shot with one of those friends you know just "gets" you. No worries if it takes you a while to get to the point.

Get serious about taking these opportunities - it's not likely anyone will just hand them to you. And, if you take them often enough, you'll enjoy living, loving, and serving so much more! And, let's be honest, you'll probably be a little more enjoyable yourself!