Sense of Peace

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As the fourth week of Advent begins, we light the final candle representing peace.  It seems so coincidental (or God’s plan) that everything has been so peaceful in my life.

Usually around this time, my life is filled with stress and running around trying to get everything ready for the holidays.  I think that because of Dominican Volunteers and my special attention to Advent this year, I seem to be more at ease.

I have intentionally paid attention to Christ’s presence in my life and prayed about how I need to prepare for the coming of Christ. 

It has been very interesting how the beginning of my week was quite tumultuous (or so it seemed at the time).  I was subbing for second grade for three days, we had three new students straight from South Korea, and our community had something planned for every night of the week. 

But everything settled as the week came to an end.  The second grade teacher came back to work, the students’ Christmas party was a success, the second grade Korean student really bonded with me, and we had a wonderful celebration for my roommate Stephanie’s birthday, among many other blessings.

My spiritual direction with Brother Chris is proving to be so fruitful and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to flesh out my spiritual life.

I have decided not to stress about my visit back to NY for the holidays.  I have a few plans in mind, but I don’t want to plan everything to the tee.  Over planning can lead to anxiety or disappointment.  If everything happens, so be it, if not, life moves on. 

I will be able to see family and friends and that is what matters this holiday season.