We had our usual household prayer meeting last night and for our discussion, Alvin and I decided to show them the presentation: Interview with God.
This was not the first time I watched the presentation because it was used in one of our faculty prayer sessions at the Ateneo Grade School. The presentation is simple and yet for me, it was very powerful. That I think, is the reason why after more than ten years, I still remember it.
Going back to my story, for our sharing and discussion, we asked our members what part of the presentation struck them the most. We all agreed that there were so many things that you can actually use for reflection, but among all of it, the one that stood out in our reflection last night was the one saying: You worry too much about the future that you forget about the present, therefore, you don't get to live in the present nor the future.
Our other brothers and sisters gave very good sharing and their personal insights, we were all learning from each other. As parents to two very young kids, we can't help but get worried about too much. I think that is very much understandable. But the recent deaths of friends became instrumental for a change of heart for me. We spend too much time and energy building for our future, not realizing the reality of life being so temporary. That this day might just be our last day.
Last night's prayer meeting also became an avenue for me to explain to hubby why sometimes I want us to discuss the "what ifs" ... the "what if I am or he is taken already, abruptly (touchwood)."
Bottomline, hubby and I, decided that starting today, we will try to build more memories with our children. We will not wait for long weekends for us to make beautiful and happy memories. I cannot say that we will not be worried anymore, but we are placing our trust in Him. After all, He only has good things prepared for us. We want to make sure that (touchwood) when we are taken too soon from our children, we have made enough memories of us (with them and good memories at that!) for them to have and cherish, until they grow up.
When worrying does catch up on us, I will remember my favorite Gospel reading: Mathew 6: 24-35. It does wonders for me. It affirms me that all will be well and removes all the worries.
P.S. Tomorrow, we will continue making memories with our kids. Instead of eating out, we decided to bring our lunch out to the park. We will have barbie and a very simple family picnic :) Liam will be bringing his scooter. Hoping that the sunny weather forecast tomorrow will be accurate so we can enjoy our family time again :)
