“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” –Psalm 51:10
Monday through Friday at 4:10am my alarm goes off! Some mornings are easier than others, and some mornings I am already awake. This is my time for me! I know that no one else in the house is up, and I get up change the dog’s water, put out mine and Jeff’s pills and vitamins, do my stretching and leave for the gym. I usually arrive there at 4:57am, and they open at 5:00am. There is a small group of us that are always there at that time, die hard exercisers, or maybe a little crazy. I know all the people who work there, and they all know me too.
Usually I put my headphones in and start on the elliptical machine. I find that this is a good time for me to reflect on my day, what I have planned, and at which center I will spend the majority of my time. If there is a problem, or an issue I am having, this is also a good time for me to quietly think of the best ways to approach each situation. It helps me to think clearly, and to prioritize my next 12 hours.
After the elliptical machine, I move on to the bicycle, this is my time to be in prayer for my family, my church family, my friends and anyone else who I know needs some extra love and caring from God. This is when I ask God for special prayers for anyone who needs them both in my life and in the world.
As many of you know I am a very social person, I love talking and visiting with everyone. At the gym, I really keep to myself for the most part. A hello, a wave, or a smile is usually the only communication I have with the people there. This is my time for self-reflection. Everyone needs to spend time each day praying and reflecting. Maybe the gym is not the place for you to be alone in your thoughts, but you love taking a walk or sitting on the patio alone for a while.
I have spent most of my life struggling with my weight, and this combines a healthy lifestyle, and a way for me to pray on a daily basis. I do not check in on Facebook, or Instagram, most people probably don’t even know I go to the gym every day, unless they are a really close friend or my family. Some who do know think I am a little crazy, because even on vacation I am in the gym every day. This is my way to start my day with positive thoughts, and it sets me up for a good day.
What do you do to set yourself up for a good day? Where is your happy place?
Gabrielle Moon, Executive Director St. Luke’s Children Centers
