Enjoying the time to rest.

As we approach the holidays and time off, it gets really easy for me to use it as to-do list heaven for all the things I haven't had time to get done these last few months. There's always that voice saying "finally, I can catch up on everything"—reorganize my notes, finish those side projects I started in September, learn that new framework I've been meaning to pick up.

But here's what I'm reminding myself: it's important to actually take a break from productivity and spend time with loved ones in an unhurried way. Not every moment needs to be optimized or productive. Sometimes the best thing you can do is just be present.

This time of year is also so valuable in a spiritual context, and I'm excited to get to see people from church that I haven't seen while I've been at school. There's something about coming home and reconnecting with the community that knows you before college, before the engineering projects and the late-night study sessions. It grounds you in a way that's hard to replicate anywhere else.

I've been thinking a lot about rest lately—real rest, not just the kind where you're scrolling through your phone or half-watching a show while your brain is still running through problem sets. The kind of rest where you can actually feel your shoulders drop and remember what it's like to not be constantly doing something. That's what I'm hoping for this break.

If you're also coming off finals or a busy season, I hope you give yourself permission to actually rest. Not "productive rest" where you're still grinding. Just... rest. Spend time with people you care about. Sleep in. Read something that has nothing to do with your major. Watch the sunset without taking a picture of it.

We'll be back at it soon enough, but for now, let's actually enjoy the pause.

Until next week—I'm praying for you,

James

What's one thing you're looking forward to doing this break that has nothing to do with being productive?