David Kundtz is a psychotherapist in private practice, director of Inside Track Seminars, and author of several books. In this appealing collection of essays, he advocates the importance of doing nothing. Sadly enough, most of us are too busy rushing from one task to another to take time to slow down and even drop out (a phrase that was in vogue during the 1960s). The moments in between can be very restorative to body, mind, and soul.
In one essay, Kundtz presents some lively alternatives to viewing life as a rat race. One would be to envision it as a cat prowl: this image is much more relaxed and friendly. Another is a fox trot, dancing our way through our days. The author believes that the hurry sickness rampant in our culture often results in our missing the best stuff. That is why Kundtz suggests we use telephones, beepers, and clocks as triggers to pause and take note of what is happening in and around us. We liked this practice:
"Every time I hear the microwave beeper — a sound I find annoying — I call myself to a momentary breath of relaxation and a recollection of how I'll enjoy whatever is being warmed."
Doing nothing is not prized in our productive society but it has worth in all the religions of the world. It is a time when we can savor our senses, luxuriate in our blessings, rejoice in the wonders that surround us, revel in creativity, and just be. Whether writing about the weather, singing, the moon, or caring; Kundtz challenges us to be more attentive and playful.
