Hi friends,
Popping into your inbox on a non-Field Notes Day because I know a lot of us are neck-deep in that back to school fun/stress right now. (To all of you who are already a month in, we are both jealous of your routines and enjoying our last days of sleeping in, it’s fine.) Our four are all off to school tomorrow so we’re in that last-day-cramming mode at the moment, too. They’re headed into grade 12(!!!), grade 10, grade 7, and grade 3 which is WILD to me. But I’m popping into your inbox today because, as is my custom, I wanted to share a new benediction for our beginning school year.
Beloved one, as you begin anew, may the light of curiosity and truth of love guide you on this journey back to school. May you find the courage and humility to be both student and teacher, knowing that we all hold wisdom to share.
May your hearts remain open to the stories woven into the pages of textbooks and the lives of your fellow travellers. Let the diversity of thought and experience expand your horizons and deepen your love for the world.
In the stress of deadlines and assignments, remember that your worth is not measured by grades alone. Embrace the process, the questions that lead to even more questions. May you experience moments of challenge and grace, laughter and learning as gifts.
As you gather with friends old and new, may you build connections that bring goodness to you and the community around you. Be gentle with yourselves, for learning is not just about acquiring facts but about allowing transformation and growth, too.
So, go forth with the grace of a learner's heart. May you approach each day with a spirit of wonder, ready to engage, explore, and evolve.
And as you venture into this new season of learning, may you always remember: you are enough and you are so very, very loved.
Amen
Now go get’em,
S.
P.S. As you’re planning your autumn, make sure you mark October 13-14 for Evolving Faith! In a world where beliefs are constantly evolving, this conference creates a safe and open space for people from all walks of life to come together, learn, share, and grow. Whether you're navigating questions about spirituality, wrestling with doubt, seeking connection, or simply curious about deepening the intersection of faith and life, this conference is for you. And we’d love to welcome you to our feast in the wilderness with speakers like Barbara Brown Taylor, Nadia Bolz-Weber, Dr. Wil Gafney, Danté Stewart, and so many more.
You can buy your ticket for in-person in Minneapolis or online and check out all the info here. Hope to see you there!
And in case you missed these recent Field Notes:
“I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves.” - Anna Quindlen: My ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ recent reads plus all the books I finished lately and Kindle deals for you
15 New Breath Prayers: Joy edition - Take what works, chuck the rest, and let God love you.
👀 Book cover sneak peek: Preorders are open for "Field Notes for the Wilderness" now!
I have been waiting for your benediction ! Thanks so much for putting thought and care together with words. I always share your back to school prayers with my community.
So nice. My kids are all out of school and you know, as hectic as it was, I MISS IT!
PS. Can I just say I love the little period at the end of your sentence in the graphic. 👍