Tuesday, October 11, 2011

From Bothered to Blessed

We have been busy this fall.  With soccer and volleyball games and practices, school projects and events, and family outings and traditions, often times I don't know if I am coming or going.  The last thing I need is one more thing to pop up on my calendar. 

This time, it was a mandatory second grade Reconciliation retreat.

When the reminder note came home, I sighed and thought, "One more evening wasted."

But throughout the week, something changed my mood.

I got to thinking about just why we work so hard to send our kids to a private, Catholic school.  Sure the small class sizes are nice.  The uniforms make my life easier.  The principles that we value are upheld on a daily basis.  But the truth of the matter is we could find that elsewhere.  It is the religious education.  It is the sacramental preparation.  This is why we sacrifice so much for our children to be there.

And here I am complaining about "another meeting."

It's not just another meeting, though.  It is a retreat with my son.  A time for us to share together...without the interference of siblings or chores or sports.  A time for us to reflect upon our relationship with God, and, in turn, our relationships with others.

Living is rather simple.  Put God first.  But how often is that the case?  With so much pulling me in a thousand different directions, am I really, truly keeping God at the center.  The answer is quite simple, too.  No.

God's forgiveness is divine.  His love is unconditional.  To become closer to my creator, all I have to do is admit my failings and strive to do better.

This I can do.

I am grateful for that opportunity.  The chance to share with my son the blessings of God.  The opportunity to look within myself and recognize where I have done wrong.  The time to ask for forgiveness and do better. 

To be better. 

For myself. 

For my husband. 

For my children. 

For this, Lord, I am blessed.

2 comments:

Grumpy Grateful Mom said...Best Blogger Tips[Reply to comment]Best Blogger Templates

I liked your post. I often find myself having a bad attitude when it comes to extra things, even if I know they are good for me or my kids. And I don't always put God first either. A good reminder for me.

Shell said...Best Blogger Tips[Reply to comment]Best Blogger Templates

I would start out annoyed, too. Seems like I always have something else to do.

But, you're right- you have to look at the reason for it.

Though P.S. aren't uniforms the BEST? ;)