"Daunting" is the word that best describes my experience of these busier that usual times. It's not unusual for me to not feel up to the tasks. But what I find by keeping my routine the best I can, putting one foot in front of the other, and taking short pauses to reconnect with the One who walks with me, is not only that can I do it but that I can even enjoy it, despite definitely not wanting it to be my norm.
Even in normal times, people ask me how I manage all my roles and responsibilities. My somewhat sly answer is, "Sometimes better than others." Truth be told, it's all about priorities and knowing my limitations. Above that is staying connected to the Vine, knowing that I but a mere branch. What I have gotten used to at times is not getting to a lot of things done as soon as I'd like. I am a task in/task out, next, kinda person. During those times when my regular cycle is disrputed by the need to make trade-offs in order to attend to higher priorities, some things snowball. For example, as a result of this two week period, I will definitely have some digging out to do.
I don't mind divulging that I am doing my second Saint Michael's Lent through Exodus 90. My fraternity this year is smaller than last year. There are four us from my parish who are walking together. Spiritually, this is what I need right now, despite the commitment adding to my burden somewhat. Since it's Christ's burden, rather than increase my load, it lightens it. My three brothers, all from my parish, were all already friends. Their fellowship means a lot to me.
While I enjoyed last year, I felt the spiritual guidance was lacking in certain aspects. I also found some of it theologically off. This year, two Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, Fathers Innocent and Angelus, are our spiritual guides. At the risk of sounding like an older man trying to be "with it," I am vibing this year. I eagerly look forward to each day's reflection and prayer. Since fasting is the forgotten and deliberately neglected spiritual discipline, I enjoy that aspect of Saint Michael's Lent, as it is a discipline I try to practice regularly. It's nice to have companions.
I still remain fascinated by time, by its passage, by its relativity. It's hard to believe that we're approaching the end of the first week of September. I am very grateful that returning to this online endeavor late last year has borne the fruit for me that I hoped it would bear. In reality, it's been a bumper harvest. God is good and gracious. It helps that this has long been a labor of love. As the response to the Intercessions from Morning Prayer today puts it, In your will is our peace, Lord. Seeking to live in God's will is vital.
I have a road trip today. I need to go and return so I am back to meet commitments I have for tomorrow- the first of which is my Fraternity meeting- the other rather more formal. Otherwise, I would spend the night at my destination. Next week, I have a one day trip to Florida for a business meeting. (Deep sigh!)
I have been listening lately to some of my favorite contemporary Christian music. In particular, Phil Keaggy's 1993 Crimson & Blue album. It seems fitting that "Everywhere I Look" is our Friday traditio. Tenga un buen fin de semana a todos.
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