Counting sheep in a noisy world

4 ways to finding peace & rest in the hustle of modern life

“Sleep is the best meditation.” — Dalai Lama

This week, I apologetically tiptoed into a territory that I usually avoid with care—that is, the delicate act of cancelling long held plans last minute. It's just not in my nature; I cherish the time others set aside, always aiming to be fully there, both in body and spirit. Yet, as I’m reluctant to admit, this past month has whispered to me the harsh truth of my limits, also reminding me that I am getting older. In an effort to bridge time zones and accommodate far-flung global schedules, it is now the way of the modern world. This awareness came with the recognition of the reciprocal efforts made by colleagues, who occasionally adjust their schedules in similar gestures of flexibility, underscoring a shared commitment to mutual support.

As a result, my mornings began before the dawn had a chance to blush, leaving me feeling more ghost than guest in my own life, but being mindful that my colleague too, often makes time zone sacrifices to accommodate me, from time to time.

As night embraced the world, offering its peaceful respite, I found myself an outsider to its calm. Restless…