.jpg)
Recently I was stuck in a traffic jam in the hot weather. Drivers around me took it in turns to try and turn round and go a different way, push into a non-moving queue, or get out and walk around trying to find out what was happening further along.
Often when we can't see what is ahead or when we struggle with where we are, we do several things ourselves: we blame others, we look for solutions in our own strength, or we blame ourselves for what we are experiencing.
During that jam though I had time to breathe, I had time to think and pray, and I chose to slow down the rushing thoughts that I had.
I wonder whether you’ve given yourself that time to think and breathe recently.
Have you considered the important people and times in your life
and the values you have developed since you were young.
Do you give yourself the opportunity to give thanks to God for the things you have - even the little things.
In our rushing around we often forget these things and I think we would do well to remember them.
In our need to finish things off and start new things, we would do well to give thanks, to mark the ending of something before embracing the feelings in starting something new.
This next few weeks holds many feelings for children and families and staff alike: endings, beginnings, moving on, change, and sometimes just staying where you are. Please remember to be kind to yourself and others, and ask for God’s strength.
Father of All,
Who loved the world so much and continues to bless it,
Bless us with moments to pause and give thanks.
Bless us with breathe to take stock and seek strength.
And help to feel your guiding spirit in pathways off success and celebration.
Amen.