Examen

A technique of self-examination called Examen was developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola in the 16th century. It is a daily routine for seeing God moments in my life and being not only self-aware but also God-aware.

Yesterday, I listened to a podcast with writing coach, Chad Allen. He and his guest discussed the need to reflect on our writing during these last few days of the year. Though they were talking about increasing the numbers of email subscribers and what we have done to promote our books or blogs during 2024, I decided to go through my daily journal to do a self-check on other things.

Last year’s New Year ‘s Object Lesson for the family was on being mindful of our time and using it wisely. Quite frankly, I started to pat myself on the back for ‘walking my talk’ more closely. But as I did a double check in my journal, I found I had missed that boat, the train, the car, and even the bicycle!

I pretty much gave up setting goals for the year a while back. My vows to be selfish remained unfulfilled year after year, so I kicked that to the curb. Losing weight-same thing. Keeping my desk top clear is totally unrealistic.

I have been trying to blog faithfully. My book writing comes and goes in spurts.

I have had a great time since my last surgery doing crafts. Keeps me from moaning and groaning, gets some of my craft supplies used up, and lets me have things to give to those who have blessed me.

As I look toward our upcoming life changes, I am determined to give away LOTS of things I can’t bring with me to a smaller place. What to keep and what to pitch is a daily dilemma.

Same goes with spiritual and personal weaknesses. I am really tired of carrying around some things. I started to list them, but I can’t keep the list under 600 words.

So

I’ll just tell them to the Good Lord and ask for His help in the new year in purifying and refining my nature.

In going along with the podcast I listened to, let me hear from you.

Did you set a list of goals for 2024? What have you accomplished this past year? What are you still working on?

Would you subscribe to an email list whereby you receive an email with my latest blog?

I’m still trying to decide if I will set some goals for 2025 or just fly by the seat of my pants. I didn’t write down a list of things to accomplish during 2024, but I think I may have done better if I had.

But then, do I need to quantify everything in my life as if my days are to be measured on some sort of scale?

Maybe the Bible says it does.

TLB Psalm 90:12 says, ‘Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should.’ Selah.  (pause and think)

Blessings

Kara Beth