Years ago, people made mattresses from sacks stuffed with hay or straw. When it was time to go to bed, they would say:

• “It’s time to hit the hay.”
  or
• “It’s time to hit the sack.”

My parents expected us to rise and shine early in the morning. They also wanted us to hit the hay early in the evening. They believed we needed a good night’s sleep to do our best. It prepared us for the next day’s plans.

• A test
• A long trip
• A hard day’s work

Therefore, we received at least eight hours of sleep. We awoke rested and ready for that day’s tasks. Medical evidence supports the wisdom of this habit.

Unfortunately, many of us ignore sleep’s importance. We stay too busy. We fill our lives with too much activity.

• School
• Work
• Clubs
• Sports
• Television
• Internet

We have to do part of these. Many we choose instead of sleep. Think what we could gain from less activity and more rest. Try it.

• Turn off the noise.
• Let muscles relax and eyes close.
• Enjoy the peace and quiet.

We might be surprised how much better we feel, think, and act.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28 NIV).

Do you have an expression you want explained? If so, please comment below.

Subscribe to receive my weekly posts by email and receive a free copy of “Words of Hope for Days that Hurt.”

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends.

Photo courtesy of morgueFile.