Yup! that is correct only two!
Actually, there are many more! As I look back, not only over this year, but also over my 25 years of homeschooling my seven children, TWO very profound truths rise to the top!
Numero uno on the list is: If I don’t write it down it will never happen.
Yup! I know that seems so lame, and not very profound, BUT I tell you, it is essential. I realized some time ago that in order for me to truly embrace my days, months, years with intention, I needed to have the important things written down.
I am not talking about being super organized or having a “set in stone” planner for the week or even the day. What I mean is to actually think about, and write down my deeply held beliefs!
AND use verbs because they are actionable, like this:
- Give until it hurts and expect no reward – the only thing I can control are my actions.
- Pause before speaking, listen to others with patience.
- Spend time getting to know another soul on this temporary existence to taste tidbits of heaven.
Putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard is a deliberate act of intention that creates focus and clarity.
So I created for you a handy little WRITING PROMPT sheet for your YEAR IN REVIEW. Just three SIMPLE prompts to guide you in reflection, to PONDER. It is fashioned after one I received from my trusted coach Marie and I am doing it too! Click on this button to get your copy…
While this can be a great way to review my past year and look ahead for the new year, writing it down is a way to “own” what I do! I find when I take the time to step back and reflect on my kiddos passions and gifts, write down ONE GOAL for each, then the result is real lasting success.
You see, this written goal translates to the daily tasks for the child. I become laser focused that their curriculum for the day, month, year all align with this ONE all important GOAL.
And on a very practical level, you know well that even the act of writing down a to-do list or scheduling a visit with friends ONLY actually happens when you write it down!
It works on so many levels!!!
Okay, now onto the SECOND TRUTH, which is the more spiritual and profound truth to share.
I borrow the line from my confirmation saint, St. Therese of the Little Flower:
“Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love.” – St. Therese
My entire life, as I reflect on it, is truly a miracle set in motion by profound love. You can read MY STORY to learn more details about that journey, but suffice it to say that, God is LOVE, and He loves me very much!
In thanksgiving for this love, I need to remember that everything I do, say or act upon, done with LOVE is my humble gift of love to the Father!
“My grace is enough for you, for My power manifests itself in your weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
What have you learned?
Let me know in the comments below, please share your reflections and insights…
Thank you for these kinds mentoring words! They will be reread as I plan during Christmas break in January! I also like the writing prompt handout, but to save a LOT of ink- is it possible to get a simpler version without the background? If you don’t have one, I can retype it eventually. I love St. Therese’s words of wisdom as she is always reminding us to have child-like trust in the Lord! Advent blessings!
Thanks for your kindness Helen!!! So glad you you find the prompt sheet helpful. Yes, I am in planning mode now too! To save printer ink, You can always print it in draft mode and Grayscale. Thanks for the tip, I will definitely keep this in mind when I create these handy sheets to make them pretty AND ink saver!
I not only enjoy your blogs, but that you read AND respond to the comments. Your attention to the readers as a person is a gift you demonstrate well. Thank you!
Again such beautiful wise words. Thank you for sharing! ♥️
Thank you so much for sharing this!!
Good bless you!
I love this idea! Thinking about what might be the two truths for my family has perked me up as we face starting school again after the Christmas break. Yours are a perfect springboard to finding/praying about what ‘mine’ might be. Needless to say, the Little Flower’s words would be #1 for me as well. Have a great 2019!
Yes, the Little Flower’s little way is amazing!! Her birthday was just two days ago on the 2nd, too! She has been throwing roses from heaven in my path, when I remember to stop and rest in the LOVE of Christ and his Beautiful Mother Mary! Have a beautiful 2019 Rachel!!
Dear Paola,
What a treasury of wisdom in these two truths… Thank you! What you have to share is precious. I am about to fill out my “Year in Review” sheet, filled with renewed hope for the new year. What a lovely gift from you. But first, a cup of tea!
May Jesus, Mary, Joseph, all the angels and saints remain with you always. And with your family too.
Dear Armelle!!
Thank you so much for your kind words! Wish I was just now with you sharing that cup of tea! Tea definitely relaxes me and helps me to slow down and gain real perspective, a very civilizing drink! Mostly though invoking those precious saints to intercede on our behalf is the balm to calm my soul!!!
Happy and blessed NEW YEAR to your family!!