Monday mornings come early. Before the world fully stirs, before the sky shifts from darkness to dawn, my day begins. The dogs need to be let out, their eager paws tapping against the floor, reminding me that no matter how tired I am, life keeps moving. My daughter needs to be roused for school, a task that, lately, feels heavier than it used to. The weight of our struggles lingers in the air, unspoken but felt. I take a deep breath and press on.

As I move through my morning routine, there is little time for stillness. The coffee brews as I mentally run through my day—lessons to teach, students to guide, responsibilities to carry. But even in the motion, I seek the quiet. I journal every day, whispering my prayers onto the page, knowing that He hears even when I cannot find the words to say aloud. Life can be tiring. My heart longs for the unhurried pace of a Saturday morning—coffee in hand, my journal open, my dogs nestled beside me. But today is Monday, and I must go.

Still, I find my moment. Stepping outside with my dogs before work, I breathe in the crisp air. The world is waking up. The birds, my faithful morning companions, begin their songs, and I greet them softly—”Good morning, birdie birds.” It is a simple ritual, but it anchors me. It reminds me that even when life feels heavy, there is beauty in the small things.

I whisper my gratitude, even on the hardest days. For the warmth of my coffee, the steady rhythm of my breath, the love of close friends who walk this journey with me. I find comfort in the quiet moments with Jesus, where no words are needed—just the stillness, just the knowing.

Mondays may not be slow, but they can still be sacred. They remind me to push forward, to seek the glimpses of grace, to trust that even in exhaustion, there is purpose. And so, I step into this day, heart open, hands willing, soul anchored in gratitude. A sip, a breath, a whispered prayer—and onward I go.

A Gentle Invitation for You:

If you are feeling the weight of a heavy morning, take a deep breath. Seek a moment of stillness, even in the rush. Here are a few simple ways to center yourself as you step into your day:

1. Pause for Gratitude – Before you dive into the day’s demands, whisper a simple ‘thank you’ for one thing, however small.
2. Find a Ritual – Whether it’s greeting the morning air, sipping coffee slowly, or taking one deep, mindful breath, let a small act anchor you.
3. Write a Prayer or a Thought – It doesn’t have to be perfect or long. Just something that reminds you that you are held and heard.
4. Seek Beauty in the Ordinary – Notice the birds, the morning light, the warmth of your cup. Small joys carry us forward.
5. Give Yourself Grace – Some days are heavier than others. Walk gently, knowing you are doing the best you can.

May your Monday, no matter how hurried, hold a moment of peace, a sip of stillness, and a reminder that you are not alone.

Blessing & Peace

Jenny