Love thy neighbor as thyself

Summer kickoff…

Happy Monday! How has your summer kicked off? I decided to try a little something different for the start of this summer. My children are at a nice age in which they are becoming so independent due to jobs, school, and age that I’ve almost become a nuisance to them, jokingly. I am sure they secretly like me. 😊 Don’t worry, my husband is in charge!

But, every year we have gone to a beach or another location for some self-indulgence, but I found it left me feeling empty, drained, and broke. (LOL) Then after many sunburns, I decided  this year I’d create my own self-guided spiritual retreat with the help of lovely friends and a beautiful parish (St. Mary’s) located in our area. So, rather than self-indulge, I self-reflect in long hours of adoration, mass and service to others. It has been exactly what I needed, but then again everyone has said, I’ve always been different. Well, this year and going forward I embrace my different personality of loving Jesus with my whole heart and soul. I am no longer ashamed. My kids have even said they are proud of me, and I am fortunate to have a supportive husband who understands service to others in the most profound sense. So, we get each other.

Since my 20 day retreat has begun, I allowed myself to grieve my father’s death to the extent I had not done so before. This alone has allowed great peace in my heart after pretending it didn’t bother me for 4 years. I have met some of the most amazing and spiritual friends and pastor that have only increased my love for Christ. I have been able to serve the those in need, administer the Eucharist more often, improve my Spanish lectoring, heal through confession, and finally embrace a new idea of respite. Although, this may not sound like a respite to some, it has wholly reenergized my soul.

          You too may find that readjusting your kickoff to the summer may need some spiritual self-care and service to others if simply laying out to get a sunburn doesn’t necessarily bring you complete joy 😊. That’s my Monday / summer advice to you all. God bless. Xoxo!