Settling into a routine

Getting into the routine is sometimes easier than we think.  Changing bedtimes so that earlier wake times become routine is one that is more difficult for me.  Getting ready for a new schedule to begin next week, I am trying to find some moments of “me” time, but there must still be moments of “we” time.  We still have work to do—we still have a house to maintain and a family to keep on track.  We need time together as much as we need time apart to make the routine, well, routine.  It’s relearning how to create balance between what must be done for all our responsibilities, those which have been on vacation for a couple of months as well as those that never end, and what must be done to maintain our relationships with our loved ones—friends and family.  Sometimes the scale tips more on one side than the other.  It’s important to change the weights every so often to have an accurate measure of life.

O God, you gave us so many opportunities to do so many things in these lives you also have given us.  Help us to look to you to find balance between work, volunteerism, school and relationships.  Guide us towards the “right” emphasis on the “right” things at the “right” time.  Help us forgive ourselves when we cannot do it all “right.”  Help others forgive us when what we decide is “right” for us does not measure on their scale of what is “right” for that relationship.  We know we will fall short of expectations.  Help us to keep our hearts, minds and souls in relationship with you, for you are our strength and our redeemer.  Amen.