Sundays have never been my favorite day of the week. In fact, they often feel like a scene from a science fiction novel. Inspired by Douglas Adams, I can’t help but think about that immortal character who finds Sundays particularly burdensome. It’s as if the weight of existence crashes down on us during the dreaded “soul-searching Sunday.” You know that feeling—the one that creeps in during a lazy Sunday afternoon when all the chores are done, and you’re left feeling aimless and unmotivated, munching on snacks just to fill the void.
A British Childhood on Sundays
Growing up in the UK, Sundays were a test of endurance. The concept of a day of rest comes from Genesis, where God takes a break after creating the universe. But in doing so, it left us with empty shops and nowhere to escape. With only four television channels at our disposal, Sunday viewing was a true trial. The offerings were bleak: a dull antiques show, a never-ending historical drama, and the notoriously tedious quiz show, Mastermind. Then, there was “Last of the Summer Wine”—a so-called comedy about three elderly gentlemen wandering in Yorkshire, which often ended with one of them crashing a homemade contraption into a tree. It was a grim ploy by the BBC to ensure that kids were excited about school the next day, and I often found myself retreating to bed, feeling utterly defeated.
Adult Life: The Disappointment Continues
As an adult, I hoped Sundays would be more fulfilling, but alas, they remain a paradox. With the rise of multi-channel television and Sunday shopping, you’d think Sundays would be more exciting. Instead, they often leave me feeling the same way—trudging through farmer’s markets and absurdly contemplating the purchase of a plastic pond lining. (Seriously, buying a hole? Is there anything more existentially dismal?)
So, what makes Sundays so challenging? Ironically, it’s a day of freedom. With no obligations or scheduled fun, Sundays are the one day we can truly confront ourselves. This leads us to the dreaded question: “What do I really want to do?” It’s a chance to reflect on our goals and desires—questions that many of us avoid daily.
Weekdays provide us with easy distractions; we can bury ourselves in work and responsibilities. But on Sundays, we’re forced to confront our true selves, leading us to grapple with larger questions like “Who am I?” Understandably, most of us shy away from these inquiries, sticking to comfortable narratives like “I’m the grocery shopper” or “I’m the weekend lawn mower.”
In essence, we often dread Sundays because they remind us of the freedom we crave yet fear. They challenge us to engage with our passions and aspirations, whether that’s pursuing a new hobby, writing a novel, or simply being present in the moment. Sundays offer us an empty canvas, daring us to fill it with something meaningful.
Thanks, but no thanks, Sunday. I think I’ll just dig a hole for this plastic pond lining and quietly contemplate my life choices.
For more insights on navigating your journey to motherhood, you might find this resource helpful. If you’re interested in home insemination options, check out Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kit for guidance. And always remember to read our privacy policy to stay informed.
Summary
Sundays can often feel heavy and uneventful, pushing us to confront our true desires and identities. While they may seem like a day of freedom, they also bring to light the existential questions we typically avoid during the week. This paradox can make Sundays a source of dread, as we wrestle with the freedom to truly engage with ourselves.