The Pleasant Work of Our Hands

I am all for the modern conveniences of washing machines and dryers, dishwashers and blow dryer, electric curlers and all of the fancy kitchen utensils that make our lives easier and more enjoyable.  When we have a crazy busy life, these modern machines make life more efficient and capable of getting things done in a timely manner.

Modern life can obscure the simple pleasures that await us when we get back to basics.  Every once in awhile try washing the dishes by hand and drying them with a towel.  Notice how the process slows you down.  Your senses will be awakened by the warm bubbly water, the soft drying towel and the meditative quality of washing.  There is also an appealing sense of ritual.  It is true that if I had to wash and dry dishes every day the appeal would wear off and I would become frustrated quickly.

I have also found that sharing dish washing with friends or family can be a wonderful way to have casual, intimate talk.  While you both are immersed in the rhythm of washing and drying, that rhythm creates a protective space where you listen to each other and share.  The kitchen is the heart of the home.