Finally, here in my neck of the woods, the cooler days and nights of fall have arrived. I’m so grateful, since the summer humidity and heat kept me inside more than usual, enjoying the air conditioning. I know that other parts of the country are experiencing horrific storms, be the fire, water and/or wind. Please pray for all those experiencing these terrible and life-changing events, asking the Lord for all their difficulties be over quickly.
Last weekend, I had the chance to lead a day retreat for a wonderful group of people. We all practiced the precautions necessary to avoid COVID, and it was a great day. More than anything, it was good to be with others. Although the group was not large, it was still the biggest inside gathering I had been a part of since before the virus hit. It made me realize how good it is to gather together, to focus on all the good happening around us, and realize just how blessed we are, despite all negative parts of our daily life. As the seasons change and the days continue to become shorter, I think it’s always a good time to take stock of where we are and where we want to go in the season ahead. As someone on my retreat noted, it all depends on where you put your focus. Well said.
Friends, with the upcoming election and the continuing unrest, we have a great opportunity to show ourselves as we truly are: children of God. As St. Ignatius noted at the beginning of his Spiritual Exercises- Let’s assume the best in other people, having a generous spirit towards all those we meet, for they too are God’s children, whether they recognize it or not.
