Phew! I’ve arrived at Friday evening.
Do you ever have weeks that feel too full, like you’re not quite sure how you managed to fit everything in? That’s been my experience this week. A week that’s been rich and busy, a mixture of beautiful and overwhelming moments. And now I’ve reached the end feeling tired, but with so much to be thankful for. Stretched, yes, but somehow still grounded.
One highlight was meeting with my spiritual director – someone I see regularly who helps me reflect on and deepen my relationship with God. We sat in his living room, looking out over the garden and soaking up the sunshine. We covered a lot in a short space of time, but especially explored my growing sense of being God’s beloved daughter. It feels like such a victory to be able to say that with confidence, a milestone in a long journey of learning to believe this fundamental truth of my faith.
We also talked about keeping that relationship with God fresh. Prayer can become routine, even dry, so I try to explore different ways of connecting. Recently, I’ve been finding life in journaling prayers writing my thoughts and feelings helps keep my mind focused. He introduced me to something new: centering prayer. I’d never come across it before, but I’m excited to try it. Stay tuned – there might be a blog post about it soon! There was something special about having that pause, that moment of peace in the midst of a full week.
But it hasn’t all been peaceful. Work brought a fair amount of pressure. I’m someone who likes to help, to solve problems, but this week, that willingness came with weight. I heard more than once, “We don’t know what we’d do without you.” It’s a kind sentiment, but it also carries pressure. I don’t want to let people down. In the middle of it all, I’ve had to remind myself that my worth doesn’t come from what I do, but from who I am: a child of God.
Still, in the mix, there have been little moments of joy. Cheesy chips and catch-ups with a colleague. Chocolate chip and banana bread and butter pudding, and a quiz with friends. Awful TV and laughter with my housemates. Moments to let go and simply enjoy.
So yes, it’s been a full week – a mixed bag of emotions, energy, and encounters. It hasn’t always been peaceful, but I’ve known God with me through it all.
And that, I think, counts as grace.
The Reason for my Hope Blog 