My life:

I try to do everything, to please everyone.
I try to bend myself into things I am not. Things I want to be, but am not.
I try to regularly attend book clubs, bible study, volunteer for organizations and committees, give back more than I take.
I try to be a good friend, a loyal and encouraging girlfriend, a sister, a daughter, a pleasant neighbor, a helpful co-worker/boss, an owner of two needy dogs, a passionate lover of Christ. A patient and loving person of our society.
I try to keep my house clean, and my fridge stocked with healthy food.
I try to always keep my hobbies close by.
I try to see all of my friends at least once a week.
I try to keep up with current events, the latest fads and t.v shows, read the latest books on the best seller list.
I try to keep in touch with my friends and family living in distant places.
I try not to forget birthdays and anniversaries so I can send them a card. 
I try not to gossip, speak negatively of myself or others.


It all adds up to an exhausted, frustrated, trying-to-succeed-but-constantly-failing Kelsey.


My life is constantly bombarded by noise, and last night, I read this article referencing the words of a Buddhist monk: “When you are chopping a carrot,” he said, “be chopping a carrot.” 

I've been reflecting on this gem all morning. "When you're drinking coffee, be drinking coffee." One thing at a time.

I have a feeling if I keep trying to do all of these things, and be all of these people, I will look back feeling like I've missed out, or that I didn't take enough time. That the simple life I am trying to live, isn't that simple. That I didn't soak it all up while I was here.

When you are chopping a carrot, be chopping a carrot.