Sundays are More Special Now...

During a regular week, do you find yourself thinking quietly how you want it to end or do you just zip by and brace for the next Monday to grind at the proverbial "nose to the grindstone and back to the wheel" mode or be content on that stationary hamster wheel? Thank goodness, for me and my family, Sunday has always been a special time for reflection, gratitude and togetherness, but since last week, the Sabbath, just became more meaningful.

Ever since I got called to the Nursery, being at church took on another meaning. Sure, I've had this calling three other times, and each one brought the same feelings, and that's what gives it meaning for me, the consistency, the confirmation that despite the noise, crying, occasional hitting and pushing, I am in the presence of perfection, divinity and unconditional love and friendship. Young children are truly amazing...

During a very stressful week, I can always count on each Sabbath day to force me to fear, ponder and enjoy God's company. I teach my children that this world has a purpose, they have a purpose and that I am grateful to be entrusted with them, who are, in a few years from now, will be capable of changing the world for the better, if they so choose to side with our dear Lord, Jesus Christ and His gospel. To fathom their potential is mind-boggling!

I never thought I could handle being away from my husband even just for a day, but I slowly realize that the more I pull away, the more I'm given the opportunities to be able to face it and endure much. I am more loving, patient, happy and appreciative of my husband during our time together and with the children because I want him to leave with the strong desire to come back home when he's able to. Our children pick up on that enthusiasm and we are a closer family for it. We talk more, though we do compensate for his absence and shorter stays with chores and projects, but at the end of the day, things are truly better...

Having my own children someday had been a childhood dream, but having my prince charming come out with them into the real world with me is something I can never take for granted. I can watch my family sleep, read and talk all day. To them, my cooking is what gets people to come and stay a while, but to me, it's my happiness radiating out because of them. And for that, people come and try to see for themselves why.

Each and every Sunday has never been just any other day to me, but now, with an added strength, love and faith that my family's being blessed with, Sundays are more special now...