Dr. Howell’s Reflections
Everyday, Dr. Howell writes a reflection, inquiry prompt, and a prayer.
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Rejuvenation Part 7
Nov. 7, 2024
To rejuvenate, we go through similar processes. First, we take stock of the areas that require restoration. Through self-inquiry, we become conscious of the damaged areas. We ask, “What trauma has damaged me, and what level of pain did it leave behind?” We take note of our answers. Then we ask ourselves, “What capacities in my life have faded? We listen and take the answers to heart. Then we inquire, “What areas of my life need life support?” We look deeply into our energy reserves and sense the areas in jeopardy.
Rejuvenation Part 6
Nov. 6, 2024
Possibly one of the most rejuvenating experiences is affirmation. You know what I mean? Just pat the head of a down-and-out dog and tell them they are a good boy or good girl, and then watch their tail wag. I had the pleasure of meeting a shy and somewhat reclusive dog recently. When I patted his head and asked him to sit and shake hands, he gave me a dog smile and became my buddy.
Rejuvenation Part 5
Nov. 5, 2024
At times, we experience a vague heaviness, an unsettled feeling. Sometimes, it's like mind fog or an almost imperceptible preoccupation. It may be a nagging thought; it may feel like a dark cloud hanging over us… We know we are not ourselves, but we can't put our fingers on the reasons for it.
Rejuvenation Part 4
Nov. 4, 2024
I do not know anyone who has not had tough times. And I have yet to experience anyone in the spiritual life who’s free from bewilderment, doubts, and tests of faith. It’s easy to ride high when things are going well. That’s when some people say, “God is so good.” We are on a mountaintop; we see everything clearly now and can’t even imagine being in a mess ever again. Yet when things deteriorate or adversity takes center stage, we are not so sure that things will ever return to the mountaintop we once enjoyed—doubts surface.
Rejuvenation Part 3
Nov. 3, 2024
Depletion is a fact of life. We must eat to restore our lost energy; we must water our plants, or they will die. We must fill our car with fuel or recharge it. The Creator sets things up so that energy is continuously being restored. Rain comes down; the sun shines, all life dies and is recycled into the earth to give more life. And then there is you and me. What do we do to restore our bodies, minds, and hearts? What happens when we do not?
Rejuvenation Part 2
Nov. 2, 2024
One of the quickest ways I know to rejuvenate is to go somewhere away from our usual demands and stressors. It may be true "There's no place like home,” but that's true about home's negative aspects too. There is no place like home.
Rejuvenation Part 1
Nov. 1, 2024
The word rejuvenation is rooted in the Latin "juvenis" which means young. Rejuvenation conveys the thought of making something or someone young again. We equate youth with strength, liveliness, and beauty, which are invaluable in moving us through the world. As we age, however, navigating the world can be physically challenging. As we lose the benefits of strength, aliveness, and beauty, we naturally want to recapture them. So, we search for ways to restore them. In what ways have you tried to recapture and maintain your younger self? Have these worked?