A Sacred Freedom

Freedom. It's a word that I or others don't think about too often but one that has struck me most recently. A year ago around this time I left my former job. It was a toxic and unhealthy environment that burdened me with a large weight. Once I left with good terms and for the most part friendly faces sending good lucks and tight hugs, it all came crashing like a ton a bricks, the ones that I built on my shoulders for weeks and weeks, and finally could relax, enjoy the start of summer, the cool air to my breath while running and reflect on all that had happened. It felt so good to leave, to be alive that I couldn't fully express it in words.

We have all experienced our own share of trials, sufferings and limits to freedom during these 3 months of isolation from others, our favorite places and excursions, regular plans and even praying and worshiping in our own churches. With the regulated access to the sacraments there's been a greater appreciation for our faith and ways that we can still practice. But nonetheless, even if Masses slowly reopening with tight rules and regulations, it on't be perfect but its necessary. Even when our freedom due to this virus has limited in what we can do, I need to continue to remind myself it won't take away my faith and believe in God and His plans, and how I think about things in a positive light.

There's so much sacred in the month of June, as John Mayer says in one of his songs. It's nearly almost summer and with every passing bright, hot day and cool, lush, peaceful evening there's hope for something more. Not only with things to slowly return to a new normal, but trusting not in our ways and plans, but God's. Even if I don't feel like I have the full freedom to keep running and running in the dusk and beauty of a crisp evening, there's ways I can embrace this cross, small suffering and hold on to the freedom that Christ gives.

Today is the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It's a beautiful and very special feast day, and it crept upon me almost without notice. I love that June is dedicated to His Sacred Heart, as it's my birthday month and the start of a lovely season, with many more beautiful months ahead! There is freedom, peace, joy, hope in His heart and in His graces, if we trust. It gives me that reassurance during these crazy times of pandemic, and busy, tiring yet joyful ones too with a toddler nephew here.

I'm looking towards St. Anthony of Padua whose feast day was last week, and is known for holding and being close to the Child Jesus, and also known for great miracles. May he help us with this little one and the joy, demands and love that my nephew needs from us during this time. Happy June, happy summer! With the heat of the days and cool mornings and evenings, and with a bigger heart to go around.