Wednesday, November 10, 2010

#442 there's nothing wrong with it!

In the evenings after dinner I like to watch TV. I sit in my favorite chair or my favorite spot on the couch and veg out for an hour or so. I used to feel guilty about it, but I really don't anymore, and I'll tell you why.

Back in 2009, we went on a vacation that included a cruise from the Dominican Republic. We shared our dining table with a family of three from Wales and a couple from England. We really enjoyed talking with all of them every night and we always found something interesting to talk about.

One night we talked about television programs. MT and I mentioned that we feel kinda guilty when we just sit around and watch TV. The comment really got a rise out of the Englishman (I don't remember his name, so I'll call him Stan.)I remember him saying, "That is just so American! What's wrong with just sitting still in the evening, maybe having a drink, relaxing and watching television? I'm sure you work really hard all day long. There's nothing wrong with watching television if that's how you choose to relax. Why should you feel guilty about relaxing? You Americans need to relax more if you ask me!"

I've thought about his point many times over the years, and I decided that he's right! I do work hard during the day, and I do deserve a little time to sit quietly and zone out. Who cares if I'm watching TV? I know that if there's something I HAVE to do, I'll get it done. I don't watch TV all the time. Sometimes I read; sometimes I play on my computer; sometimes I go to the gym or clean the kitchen.

It's all good. Thanks for the perspective, Stan!

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