Vol. 19, No. 3 - Summer 2003

Relaxing and reflecting…

Recent months have been stressful for us all and in Link’s office we began to wonder if we could find some wise folks who might offer some ideas on good methods to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect.

So we checked in with some of the wisest folks we know—the board of the college Alumni Society. We asked them, “When work has been overwhelming, world events get you down, or when a full calendar suddenly goes from delightful to burdensome, what do you do?” Here are a few of their responses:

The Rev. Robert Koenig, president of the board

“When life becomes overwhelming, I offer it ‘up’ and usually do something physical that gives me pleasure because it is also visible and worthwhile. Other times I turn to writing or to music. Sometimes just going to our Wisconsin woodhaus is enough to gain perspective on dealing with the ‘gnats of life’ or those things which bring us to our knees.”

Erma E. McGuire, board member

“My philosophy is to plan ahead and avoid such stress. Time management and decision-making courses gave me a lot of helpful suggestions.”

Michael Jerpbak, board member

“I have time to ‘relax, to rejuvenate, to reflect’ built into my life’s schedule, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to give my all to work and the other things that compete for my attention on a daily basis.

“I am an early riser, usually up around 5 a.m., when I use the quiet morning hours to read my bible, pray, and reflect on the most important heart matters that go on throughout life. (Proverbs 4:23 states, ‘Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.’)

“I also enjoy a variety of cardio activities: running, the elliptical trainer, the
stationary bike, and, whenever I can, I make a certain aerobics class on Saturday mornings…the guy who leads the class really knows how to kick it!

“When we get the opportunity to get away, we prefer simple, relaxing vacations. The ideal spot is rustic where we can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, yet not too far from the action. I’ve done a lot of traveling over the years, but to be quite honest, some of my most relaxing and fun vacations have been to simple locations in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Imagine that!

Patrick Strother, board member

“For stress management I lift weights and cycle countless miles. To rejuvenate I read, play the guitar, and spend lots of time with my family. For daily psychological distance from work, I moved to an island on Lake Minnetonka three years ago.”

Adele Munsterman, board member

“When I’ve had an especially hectic day (six out of seven lately!), I love to go home and spend an hour by myself. After talking to students all day I don’t want to talk to anyone for a while. So I put on my Latin music, do a crossword puzzle, or do a mindless task like clip coupons or organize a drawer. It’s my little luxury just to putter and not have to explain it to anyone!”