I See You - Lent Journal (15/40)

If you are already feeling the ache of canceled volunteer opportunities and being unable to serve ... I see you. Don't run from the ache. Even if there is nothing you can do - that is a good ache. Don't lose it.

If you feel the urge to retreat inward, worried about your family and your life ... I see you. Your burden is real, and it is heavy - but fight that urge and open up; we need each other. Let others lighten your burden. Be emotionally generous.

If you find yourself with nothing to do, feeling lost and alone ... I see you. Get out of the house (if it is safe for you to do so) and find people to care for. Go to the grocery store and buy flowers for the people who work there. Stop the cleaning crew at your office and tell them how valued they are. Check on your neighbors and friends; let them know they are not alone either.

If you are away from your family and are anxious to know they are okay ... I see you. If you aren't able to be there for them, give your pained heart to Jesus and let him console you. Rest in the sorrow if you need. When you are ready, let the Spirit enter into your brokenness and drive you to love those around you.

If you are already feeling burnt out from a week of paying too much attention to school announcements, parish announcements, diocesan announcements, governor's announcements, presidential announcements ... I see you. Be tender and kind to yourself. Rest in the peace and the knowledge that you are not in control, and you are not the savior.