As we begin a new school year, I find myself repeating this particular phrase again and again. I am exhaling it out in hopes that I will find joy and purpose within its words.

“Can you believe we get to do this?

I am trying to make a habit of repeating this phrase when I feel stuck or uncertain, frustrated and ungrateful.

Many say that the world has changed after the events of this week. Maybe it has. Maybe it has always been this way but this time we simply couldn’t turn a blind eye or numb out to it.

Many were completely heartbroken after this weeks events. I understand that.

We should be heartbroken. No matter where you stand on any of this, if anything at all, we should all be heartbroken.

One of my dearest friends introduced me to the idea of asking, “Where’s your red dot?” In other words, “Where are you at?” Where are you at spiritually? Where are you at in your marriage, motherhood, quiet time, and all the other craziness of life?

I find myself having to make lots of decisions.It’s that time of year, I suppose. Decisions have to be made such as which classes my children should take, curriculum choices, what activities should they pursue and all the things that surround those choices. It can be quite overwhelming and I get anxious and feel very inadequate for the tasks set before me.

I walk into the laundry room. Towels have erupted all over the place. I’m days behind on the monotony of wash, dry, fold, put away. The sink has dishes piled up. Each of my kids are needing something from me at the same time. I feel guilt wash over me…It’s all so messy and busy and weary.