Aarrgg…those fitted sheets!

There it was again, sitting on the bottom of the laundry basket because I leave it for last every time. I know it should not be such a big deal, but…

The thing’s got no real corners, nothing sharp and neat like a flat sheet. Everything else in the laundry basket has a process-the blouses, socks, towels.

But NOT the fitted sheet. No matter how hard I try to fold it nicely, it looks like I’ve rolled it into a ball. (And flannel fitted sheets are even worse!)

Are my excuses like yours?

• It’s too hard
• I can’t do it good enough
• it’s not really necessary

Of course this isn’t really about fitted sheets, yet it’s got EVERYTHING to do with fitted sheets. I use this metaphor because it’s something I dread. I do my best to fold them, all the while knowing it won’t come out perfect. But I try anyway.

Because… 

It’s time for me to fold some sheets.

There’s a Buddhist saying that goes something like: If you’re going to sweep, sweep.

This simple phrase is about doing your best at everything you do. You put your attention to the task at hand, being mindful. For when you persevere through tasks that you must do anyway, it brings a larger appreciation for the things that make you happy.

We can learn to love the process. We can treat folding that darn sheet as a stoic exercise, like meditating, exercising. We can choose to re-frame the purpose of the task. We can use the fitted sheet to become grateful for its training.

Perseverance becomes a workout, like running. Folding that darn sheet becomes a physical meditation.

I am learning to say THANK YOU to obstacles and challenges for teaching me lessons and helping me grow stronger, more accepting of all the experiences of my life.

What is YOUR fitted sheet?

It’s waiting for you.

How will you fold it?

P.S. And I’m all for some creativity this summer…what about you?