Born in a little Vermont town, he lost his mother at age 12 and his sister just a few years later. He was raised by his father, who was a hard-working farmer, store owner, and local politician. He went off to college in Massachusetts, became a lawyer, and quickly entered local politics at the young age of 26. He was known as determined and quiet, but extremely sharp and excelled in debate, public speaking, and writing.
Over his career, he served as a Councilman, State Representative, Lieutenant Governor, State Senator, Governor, Vice President, and President of the United States. He battled unions, fought for civil rights, balanced the budget, built roads and infrastructure, cut taxes, and presided over the "Roaring 20s". Calvin Coolidge certainly had a productive and impactful life by any measure.
One of the keys to Coolidge's ability to produce? He would get away from the noise and find time to think. Coolidge was known for his introverted nature and preference for solitude. He would often retreat to his room, take long walks alone, and spend time in quiet contemplation. His reserved demeanor earned him the nickname “Silent Cal.”
"After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone." (Matthew 14:23)
He had just astonished the crowd of thousands of people with his teachings, then fed them all with the equivalent of a Happy Meal and sent them home with a doggie bag. While most of us would be celebrating the miraculous accomplishment over dinner and drinks with our friends, posting selfies and dropping reels, Jesus wanted to be alone to prepare for what was next. What was next was the simple act of walking on water, saving a few friends, and calming a storm...all in a day's work.
In all of the busyness of life, work, and family, we can't forget to give ourselves time alone to think and pray, get quiet, rest the mind, refocus it, and recharge. Running always on with people, screens, and noise will eventually fry the brain and empty the heart. Nobody accomplished more in this world than Jesus, and he very often took time away from others to be alone for prayer and contemplation.
Sometimes, you need to retreat to advance.
To think rather than just do, and to make sure all you are doing is in alignment with God. My mornings are engineered for this purpose. Your days may look different, but regardless, you need to find a little "Silent Cal" time on a regular basis if you plan on helping anyone or walking on water.