A+B=C

Peace exists "when Heaven and earth 'connect,'" so says today's Loyola Press retreat. How true! And lately Heaven and earth haven't exactly been connecting around the old homestead. I've been sick; my men have been sick - yuck! I'd ask for sympathy, but chances are, you or yours, have been sick too, and don't feel like extending sympathy. I understand.

Back to the peace - or lack of it. If you are a mom, you know that peace doesn't just miraculously appear for your family. You strive for peace. You engineer familial peace. And sometimes you drop the ball. You fumble. And at other times unavoidable circumstances derail.

I feel I've been fumbling a bit. THERE'S SO MUCH TO DO! ALWAYS! I want things, I need things. But so does everyone else in my house, and my friends and my parents. I seem to be needed somewhere 24/7. That sentiment does not evoke peace.

So what usually happens? Eventually, I get sick. And as you know, I got sick. Knocked me on my butt for a week and a half. I read three books - fun books. And slept and rested and unplugged. Felt more discouraged, but then gradually more peaceful. Peace. There's that word again.

The peace came when I began to set some new priorities, and guess what? They have to do with making Heaven and earth "connect." So when I experienced today's retreat I felt a tangible verification that my plan is the right plan. And that makes me happy.

I wish you all the determination to make Heaven and earth meet in all of your households. The season for peace is nearing. If we, as moms, don't have it, how can we give it?

Maureen :)
Peace of Mind and Heart 11/3/09