There are no more blank pages in this journal.
As I prepared to embark on this 21 Day devotional, I noticed this thought, “why not start a day early?” As I contemplated that idea, I concluded that it was at least worth trying. I remember waking up with “if any man lacks wisdom, let him ask God,” on my mind. A verse my grandmother shared with me during a time of confusion as a 19yo freshman at Baylor. I figured this would be a good place to start.
After our shared daily routine of taking care of the dogs and preparing for the day ahead, KJ & I parted ways. She began working on projects, and I opened The Bhagavad Gita, the Bible App, & my journal. I grabbed a maroon pen, let go of deep breath, wrote the date at the top of the page, and titled these last two pages, “Ask God.”
My process was divinely interrupted by a scheduled call with Brother B & a haircut appointment. Once I returned home, shared lunch with my Ladybug, had recess with “The Scrubs,” & steeped some tea, I returned to my process. Grabbing an orange pen to match the note I received from Brother B, I wrote the word “Rezo” on its own line. This journaling process follows 4 steps, the last being “prayer,” “practice,” and/or “plan.” Thankfully, Brother B taught me that the Spanish term “Rezo” translates to “I pray.”
“I pray to trust my spirit. Oh, my soul!” I begin. “How many memories come to mind as I remember what you’ve done through me, to me, and for me.” I pause. “The many ways you have revealed a deeper, knowing to this mind. The connection to something more.” As I write this prayer, tears begin to stream from my eyes and heart.
Gratitude. Joy. Bliss.
I leave my autograph at the end of the prayer, signifying that this mind and body is in agreement with the words written within.
Super-Naturally, I flip to the front of the journal, wipe the residue of tears from my cheeks with my sleeves, and release a stream of fresh tears as I notice the date and title of the first journal entry.
“October 12, 2023 – From Mentee to Mentor.”
3 pages about me longing for the life I live now. One where I get to “to teach teachers. To guide others deeper into their life’s calling.” As I flip the page, I read “the tools I’ve learned and applied in my life in order to maintain a sense of balance in the midst of chaos is not common.” I go on reading the vision of what we now know as the “The Sanctuary.” Where my aim was and still is to “change the world with the tools I’ve picked up along my journey.”
Today’s entry serves a different purpose. One rooted in reflection & gratitude. Remembering my ancestors and their guidance. Acknowledging my Spirit’s loyalty to this body and mind. And devoting this mind and body back to Self, so that I can “experience more of life’s moments with full devotion to You.”