Written by Loke Poi Ching
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)
When I was younger, life often felt like a relentless treadmill. My days were shaped by deadlines, financial responsibilities, work targets, and the constant pressure to keep moving. Like many people, I had unknowingly subscribed to the world’s definition of success, believing that worth was measured by productivity, achievement, and the ability to stay one step ahead of life’s demands.
Now, after six decades, I find myself standing at a quiet and rather wonderful crossroads. Looking back, I can see how much of that striving was shaped by the culture around me rather than the wisdom found in God’s Word. Over the years, the Lord has patiently shown me a different way to live. Little by little, He taught me to unsubscribe from the relentless pressures of the world and embrace a new perspective rooted in His grace and purpose.
This shift did not happen overnight. It came through life’s experiences, God’s faithful guidance, and a growing appreciation for what truly matters. Things that once seemed urgent have gradually given way to deeper treasures: time with family, fellowship with brethren, delight in God’s creation, and the quiet joy of walking closely with Christ. As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded that true fulfilment is not found in doing more, but in becoming more attentive to God’s word and more aligned with His priorities.
The following reflections are some of the lessons the Lord has graciously taught me as I continue unsubscribing from the hustle and living the shift He has been working in my heart.
1. Trading Deadlines for Dandelions
During my career years, life revolved around deadlines. Whether it was meeting work targets, paying the bills, being able to provide more or planning for the future, there always seemed to be another demand waiting just around the corner. Like many people, I had subscribed to the belief that being busy meant being successful.
As I entered a different season of life, I no longer feel the need to go back to chasing deadlines, meeting endless targets, or constantly trying to provide more and more. God has given me the freedom to choose how I spend my time, and that choice has become increasingly clear. Rather than pursuing what the world says is important, I now find greater meaning in things that have God at the centre of them.
Nowadays, I find joy in life’s simpler gifts: a quiet morning walk, a blooming dandelion, or a few unhurried moments spent admiring God’s creation. These reminders help me slow down and remember that while deadlines come and go, God’s blessings remain constant.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
2. Family: From Hi-Bye to Treasured Times
In the past, family visits were squeezed into an already crowded schedule. I would drop by to make sure my mother’s needs were met, exchange a few words, and then hurry off to the next responsibility. Without realizing it, I often treated family time as another item on my to-do list.
These days, I am grateful for the freedom to be more intentional. I no longer measure time by what needs to be accomplished next. Instead, I can choose to be fully present, listening, sharing, and simply enjoying moments together. What once felt like an obligation has become a cherished ministry.
Now, time with my 94-year-old mother is not just about caring for her physical needs. It is about honouring her through companionship, creating memories, and sharing God’s love in the quiet moments of everyday life. These precious times remind me that some of life’s greatest blessings are found not in doing more, but in being present with those God has entrusted to us.
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12)
3. Leisure: From Exhausting Sprints to Vampire Crabs
Those days, even leisure came with a schedule. Vacations often became exhausting sprints to see as much as possible before returning to work, and somehow, I would come home needing another break.
In this season of life, I have come to appreciate a slower pace. I no longer feel the need to rush from one activity to the next or fill every spare moment with something productive. Instead, I have learned to appreciate the simple pleasures God has placed before me.
Who knew keeping little pet vampire crabs could teach me so much about slowing down and appreciating God’s intricate creation? They spend most of their time hiding, and I find myself happily peering into their habitat, hoping to spot ones. Somehow, the simple act of slowing down enough to look, has become part of the enjoyment. These moments remind me that rest is not about doing more. It is about making room to notice and enjoy the gifts God has already given us.
“Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” (Ecclesiastes 4:6)
To be continued ………..