Commitment

It’s dark when my alarm goes off these days; even when I hit snooze. The sun doesn’t brighten the sky much before 7 AM, and the clouds can cover it all day. So, my longstanding goal of waking up earlier is facing some big obstacles.

What’s tipping the balance for me, and keeping me motivated to try and try again to make myself get out of bed earlier, is just how busy life is. Somehow it seems that another hour or so in the mornings would make all the difference, and I might be able to make more of the days if they started earlier. It’s just that when the alarm goes off at 6 AM, my brain really would prefer to enjoy another hour of comfort and rest.

I’m not the only person with this struggle, and I think it’s a kind of struggle that applies to much more than sleep. In the moment, the comfortable, easy choice just feels so much better than the choice that will provide satisfaction and contentment down the line. 

When we’re faced with these choices, whether it’s to snooze or not snooze the alarm, or to stretch ourselves and learn a new skill, or to listen when we’d rather be heard, the hard choice can seem almost impossible. What I’m trying to remember, though, is that in any moment, I have control of my actions. As hard as it is, I can wake up when I’m sleepy, just like I can keep focused on writing even when my brain is tugged at by distractions on my phone. And, over time, making those choices again and again strengthens the “muscle” of my commitment to my goals and values.

Creator, help us remain committed to justice and peace, even in the face of apathy and overwhelm.

Elizabeth is a Peace member who lives in Chicago with her pets and partner.