When I was little, music was captured on records. The record player had a diamond tip, and somehow that conveyed notes and words through the arm, along a wire, and out of speakers. I still have no idea how it works. But I did understand to be careful not to scratch my brother's favorites, like The Beach Boys and Crosby, Stills, and Nash. I did not own any of my own. I spent my babysitting cash on books.

One day I noticed a pattern. A loud and jazzy song was often followed by a quieter one. Then it was back to an exuberant tune. I am not sure if this was planned, or even accurate, but it made me wonder about cycles. Sustained energy can be fun for a while, but we humans need to recoup. 

This summer has been a chance for people to be, well, less efficient. Power days are great, but they exact a toll. 

I recall a meditation my aunt gave, in which she instructed us to tense our muscles, and then release them. She guided us through our necks, and shoulders, and abdomens, and legs. It surprised me that this rhythm was so soothing. Plus I have no idea how it works. 

My prayer for you, dear reader, is to settle in to the slow. Emotions like guilt, or worry, can try to rob us of that chance for reprieve. Yet, I will go on record as one who trusts the ebb and flow.