Does anyone else feel underwater with responsibilities as the summer ends and school and other activities start picking up again? I’ve been just consumed with stress!
While driving the other day, I turned off the radio and decided to have a one on one with God. I handed Him everything. I said, “God, you gave me my life and my responsibilities, and you gave me a spirit willing to volunteer for everything, so YOU take care of this! You have to figure it out!”
It sounds silly, but it filled me with peace. And while there are still plenty of stressors, my prayers helped me realign my priorities: (1) God, (2) My Husband, (3) My Kids, (4) My Mom and the struggles of caretaking, (5) Everything Else.
With that new lens, the week seemed a lot easier. I was even able to create a few new portraits of Mary, when it’s been hard to find time to paint at all lately!
If you’re struggling at all this week, know that I’m praying for you. And let me introduce you to one of my new favorite titles, Our Lady of Mental Peace! Isn’t that an amazing title? Ask for her intercession and she won’t disappoint. If you’re looking for something more rote for your prayer, my favorite Marian prayer is the Memorare.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Amen.