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Shameful Shut-eye

Confession: I have not been taking great care of myself lately. I have not been getting enough rest. I know that I need solid hours of sleep every night, but that's one of those lessons that I have learned the hard way - repeatedly.

Rest is biblical and has been part of God's plan from the very beginning. We first learn about God's prioritzation of rest in the FIRST book of the Bible - clearly, it is important to Him. Genesis 2:2 says: "By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work." We hear more about rest throughout Bible - Jesus went away to rest, and He encouraged others to do the same.

In the rush of the Christmas season, I hope that we will not neglect our sleep or our overall health. It's important to find time to sleep, exercise and try to enjoy treats in moderation in this "season of excess," as my dad called it. When we are well rested and taking good care of ourselves, not only do we feel better physically (more energized, less lethargic), but we are also at our best to love others, perform our jobs and be alert.

Now, literally for me, it is time to sleep. Actually, it is almost past my bedtime! I'm going to challenge myself to not neglect my health this holiday season or use the holidays as an excuse to not treat myself well. I welcome you to join me in taking that challenge.

Sleep well!

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