Rosary

Today a coworker randomly presented me with a rosary. I've known her three years (just about) and in that time we've never before exchanged gifts. This was a 'for no good reason' gift. She is not religious but she and I have discussed religion a few times. She is one of those people who while having no particular belief of her own is respectful of those who respect themselves (she has no respect for people who call themselves religious and then live openly anti-religious lifestyles - for example, a Christian who outright and blatantly lies...).

The rosary from her is not like any rosary I would have picked for myself and yet as I hold it I can't help but think it is the most beautiful thing I have ever been given. It is everything I now dislike in a rosary but everything I would have wanted in a rosary a year ago (no crucifix, delicate, necklacey). These days I like only wooden rosaries and I'm particular about the crucifix (as in, there must be one). And yet somehow I can't help but feel as if God has given me a little bit of grace through her with this gift.

You're right. I haven't been praying enough. I'm sorry. It's true, the rosary is my least favorite prayer... but I get the hint. I understand what you're trying to tell me through this seemingly 'random' occurence.

Most especially I am humbled by the knowledge that my God is so powerful that He can work through those who do not openly profess His name. Isn't it amazing how good He is? Last night for the first time in several weeks I knelt to pray before bed, and tonight I did the same, this time with my new girly rosary.

Rituals are important. Rituals keep us straight and even. Without ritual I forget. Life overwhelms me and next thing I know I'm fast asleep without having spent any real time in prayer. I pray throughout the day in brief spats but it's different. That's more me sending a quick word to God, not me taking a moment to listen to His response.

My nightly prayers are all about Him. They are a time of quiet, a moment of stillness in which I give Him a chance to speak to my overwhelmed brain, if He desires. Sometimes I definitely feel Him speaking to me in the moment and sometimes I hear His answer the next day. Either way two-way prayer is only effective when I give Him the attention He deserves.

Thank you Dear Father for this beautiful little rosary that my coworker gave me today. All good things come from you so I can say with confidence that she was the messenger and you were the ultimate gift giver. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful person to work with. The conversations I have with her always leave me smiling, but more importantly thinking. I will try to remember her whenever I use this rosary to pray. Perhaps, even, that's what you want? I'm sure you'll let me know. Thank you for never forgetting me. I am ever your servant. Sometimes not so faithful, sometimes not so bright, sometimes not so good, but always yours.