I’ve been thinking about this new month of May and how there are so many things coming up. Summer is right around the corner and then before we know it, it will be Fall! I already know plenty of important dates and events to be planned that will cross off entries in my 2013 Bucket List. It’s going to be a busy rest of the year but I am excited for all of it!
For a few months, my old dance teammates and I having been planning an alumni dinner formal for the entire team. We’ve been looking forward to seeing everyone dressed up together instead of wearing the usual practice attire: t-shirts and sweats. We held the event on Friday and the turn out was better than I expected. Even though I was helping, walking around to coordinate the night, it was a great time seeing everyone, reminiscing, laughing, eating, and dancing. It was worth the time and planning.
If you know me, I tend to say Yes to anyone who needs my assistance or participation in something, whether they are events, responsibilities, or favors. In high school and college, I was part of multiple student groups at once and juggled everything. I’m still trying to juggle responsibilities but thankfully it’s not as exhausting as it was in college. I am more than happy to be part of most things and serve others in any way I can. It brings me sort of joy. I just need to remember to not let it get to that point where I am exhausted and my eczema breaks out on my face and hands! It was like that a few weeks ago. I don’t enjoy that part.
I need to make sure I’m not taking on too many things at once and remember my priorities. I love what I am currently part of which includes different Catholic ministries within and outside my home parish. Being part of them helps me to love others in a new way and it can be very fulfilling. I am overjoyed at times! I try to bring that joy I feel from the Holy Spirit around to my friends and work but honestly, there have been plenty of times where I feel like I’m just going through the motions, rushing, and not putting my love in everything I do.
There was a period in April where I was doing everything but not making an effort to spend time with the Lord in prayer on my own everyday. That lack of time in quality prayer really affected all aspects of my life. I was wondering why I wasn’t at a high during Easter. I’m still not there yet. It’s a constant struggle. I tend to think about too many things, worrying about events, and watching TV shows to put off prayer. I always have a difficult time listening to God. Then I stay up late, wake up late and rush through my prayers again. I definitely didn’t wake up as early as I wanted to this morning. If I want to improve this, I need to discipline myself in waking up early, praying, being more productive, and going to bed at a reasonable time.
I know if I can mend my prayer time and relationship with God, my days won’t be wasted, what I put my time into won’t be so neglected or rushed, I’ll be less stressed being able to focus on myself as well, and my life will have more clarity. I know it will lead to a longer lasting joy to carry around the rest of this month of May and beyond.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians, 4:4-7)
Vania Vitae 