I remember climbing trees when I was young, spending hours outside on sunny days, and collecting bruises from playing street hockey with my brothers. My mom, our homeschool teacher, would occasionally say, “It’s a beautiful day. No school today!” We would take that time to watch squirrels, picnic outdoors, and enjoy one another. One of my favorite things about The Saint Constantine School is our attention to appreciating each day as a gift and learning together with joy.  

During one season of my life, I lived in West Virginia. The winters seemed endless as we awaited spring. These last few weeks of February in Houston have reminded me of my time there and make me thankful that the cold and clouds will soon end.  

Morning prayers at The Saint Constantine School are a cherished moment to pause, even when it is cold, dreary, or rainy.  

At morning prayers, we pray the Prayer of St. Philaret of Moscow: 

O Lord, grant me thy peace to greet all this day is to bring. Grant me the grace to surrender myself completely to Thy holy will. In every hour of this day, instruct and guide me in all things. Whatever tidings I may receive in this day, teach me to accept tranquility, in the firm belief that Thy holy will governs all. Govern Thou my thoughts and feelings in all that I do and say. When unforeseen things occur, let me not forget that all is sent by Thee. Teach me to behave sincerely and reasonably towards everyone, that I may bring confusion and sorrow to no one. Bestow on me, O Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day and to bear my part in its events. Guide Thou my will. Teach me how to pray. Pray Thou Thyself within me. 

This beautiful prayer contains many truths for reflection. One of my favorites is when the priest says, “Bestow on me, O Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day and to bear my part in its events.” Even when I’m off campus, this phrase echoes in my mind and brings me peace. “Bestow” brings to my mind the image of receiving a present. Strength is a gift from the Lord, as Jesus says, “Come to me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). As I look out my office window, the trees dance in the wind. Suddenly, life does not seem so hard.  

On one recent gray day, my third-grade choir enjoyed singing in the drizzly weather. These young choristers reminded me how we can have joy in any place, in any circumstance. A teacher happened to hear us singing and took this picture!  

The clouds in your life may be visible or invisible to other, but God sees them. Throughout today, I’m going to try my best to pause, pray, and receive strength from the Lord. I’m going to look for moments to “sing” in the rain. I hope you’ll join me, as well.