Even as my youngest child is almost done with grad school, this time of year is steeped in memories and feelings of those first days of school. August seems to roar into a frenzy of lasts of the summer and new approaching chapters. For our family, each year was different. We had seasons of sheer happiness going to school and others that were filled with anxiety and sadness. There were concretes, like the supply list, but countless unknowns, such as new teachers, subjects, and friends.
As parents or people who love the children in their lives, we want to take away the fears and pressures to create the perfect environment for our children to thrive. Oh, that we could! As we have experienced so frequently in our lives, there are detours and countless bumps. The road is blurry, and we can’t see the end. We can be their light, comfort, and guide, but we can’t clear the entire path.
The good news is that in the unknowing, we can leave space for God to act, and we can pay attention to the ways God is already acting. There is peace when we take moments to let go of our need for control, find patience, and allow ourselves to find the goodness of God. Our backpack tags this year are a reminder that the peace that passes all understanding is not only for us but to pass that peace to those around us.
As the new school year takes shape, we pray for all the children, teachers, staff, families, and care givers who are heading into this season of transition.
“O God, we give our own worries and desire for control to you. May we find peace in the unknown. Thank you for the gift of the first day of school and for all the days to come. May the children we love learn and grow, and may we learn and grow too. Teach us how to love you and our neighbor more every day. Amen.” (Adapted from “A Prayer for the First Day of School” in To Light Their Way by Kayla Craig)
Peace be upon you,
Angie Seiller, Director of Faith Formation