If at First You Don't Succeed...

A few years ago a wonderful friend lent me the book A Mother's Rule of Life by Holly Pierlot. At the time, I briefly read through it (much too briefly), sat it aside, and thought "nope, too much like a schedule - I don't want that structure!". I think it was my undisciplined, childish spirit yearning to remain free and not be shackled down with such matters. I returned the book and let it go...

The last few months I have been overwhelmed with housework, childcare, homeschooling, and the commitments of marriage. I became desperate. Two weeks ago, after a particularly trying day, I ordered this book and made a commitment to giving this "rule" a concious, honest-to-goodness effort. Boy, what a shock!

First off, as the author explained her state of mind that led to her forming of her own rule, I could have sworn someone was talking about me! Exactly, well, except I only have 4 children and she has 5! This realization is what led me on to very slowly peruse the first "P" - prayer. I realize just how much I have let my relationship with God slip. Sure I go to Mass every Sunday and pray with the boys each day, but I have been letting my own personal relationship with God go. I know this is why I have developed such a "bad attitude" lately concerning my duties as wife, mother, and teacher.

So I am in week one of a new start - and it is hard. It is hard to break old habits in order to build virtue, but I am giving it my all! And I am confident that God will help me out the rest of the way! Wish me luck!