Appreciate beauty, for it enriches the soul. There are just too many things that we take for granted. Behold... beauty is before us! Take a second look at creation, our loved ones, the Gospels -- our own lives! The beauty of God's handiwork and His wisdom is more than enough to fill us---and---to knock sense into us that life is a gift that we need to fully open and appreciate more.
Realize your purpose! Sometimes busyness, ironically, can be a comfort zone. For as long as we are doing something urgent, we run with it -- 'til we become cranky and overly stressed. When one does something difficult, but with a purpose, it's passion. When one is stressed (even in menial matters), it is often a symptom of a misplaced purpose. Realizing our purpose is knowing that what we do contributes to a bigger goal -- towards a dream that is worth all the hardships and "shipwrecks", as in St. Paul's missionary experience.
Sense God's will in prayer. Amidst a hurried and noisy world, contemplation is becoming less in practice. The voice we hear is often our own, and we as human beings, are not fully reliable; for sin mars sound judgement and only in God can we find peace and direction for our lives. Without prayer, we are lost! What can matter more than doing God's will? He, Whose only intent is to give what is best for us.
In stepping back, we can face the future with more confidence -- emboldened by gratefulness, mission, and divine guidance. Therefore one should not discount the value of a rest day, a recollection, a retreat, or a lengthened time of prayer; for these can be the very "pit stops" that will equip us to zoom towards our true and eternal destination with our Father in heaven.
"In those days he departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer
to God." (Luke 6:12)
1. What has been stressing you lately?
2. When do you plan to "step back" for a while? Schedule your personal recollection or retreat.
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