Tuesday, December 31, 2013

WHITE SPACE




Today is New Year’s Eve and my yearly reflection is bringing me to a deeper understanding of white space.  As a writing teacher and a writer I understand the power of white space on a page.  It emphasizes, it allows, it creates message by its emptiness.

In a recent Weight Watcher’s meeting that I attended, someone was talking about a strategy he was using over the holiday to be intentional about food intake and still to enjoy the holiday.  He raised his awareness of white space.  White space on a plate when partaking in food.  Every item on his plate surrounded by white space.  White space in this context allows for choice with boundaries.  Partaking is possible yet overindulging doesn’t happen when one creates white space on a plate.  I love this simple message.  It seems to be a message to live by in all things.

As I enter 2014, I am aware of my need to create white space in my day-to-day life.  Soon the bustle of teaching, consulting, adjucting, and family obligations (my daughter is getting married in May and I am supporting a couple of family members who are dealing with illness) will be at an all-time high.  Creating white space for writing, for downtime, for reflection and for play is a priority to balance the busyness and to make my life rich.

So in this season of white (I am sitting in my den, with the fireplace to keep me warm as I stare out at a white landscape and the swirling of white snowflakes), I am committing myself to be aware of the white space and to be committed to allowing white space in my everyday life.

Happy New Year!


9 comments:

  1. The idea of having white space in my life gives me a clear visual reminder that it is necessary in these very busy days. Thanks for sharing.

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  2. White space in life - something I have never thought about. Great thought to cultivate.
    Bernadette

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  3. Great concept! Thank you for sharing!

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  4. Hi Deb, you've ended (and perhaps started) with a wonderful metaphor for all of us to contemplate. Thank you for that. Happy New Year!

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  5. Ooh...I love this. White space allows for choice with boundaries - invites some serious thinking! Thanks for sharing this.

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  6. White space to think and to create. That will sustain me and hopefully you as well during the high stress times this coming year! Happy New Year!

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  7. The bit of artist in me appreciates white space, too, but as a new idea I love how you have applied this to our daily lives. Wise words - thanks for sharing! Happy 2014 !

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  8. What a great way to think about being aware about our daily lives. Happy New Year !

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  9. Hi Deb. I have nominated you for a Sunshine Award. I chose people who were new to blogging or new to me. Please do not feel pressure to participate. It is just a fun way for us to learn about other bloggers. You can go to my blog to learn more.

    http://adayinthelifeof19b.blogspot.com/2014/01/receiving-lots-of-sunshine.html

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