Retreat.

Wow. P & I just returned from the Tobit weekend, the Catholic marriage preparation retreat. We were required to go as part of the pre-canna process. And on Friday as we were packing to leave, it was clear that neither of us were really thrilled with the idea of spending a weekend listening to talks. We had so much to do! We were so tired! It would be so boring!

We were wrong. Tears are seriously springing up right now, remembering the feeling I had on Sunday at our closing ceremony. We needed 36 hours away from TV, e-mail, cell phones, clocks, cleaning, driving, etc. The details are private and between us, but let's just say we remember why we're getting married and what a marriage is. The messages hit home, and we are both grateful for having gone.

One song we heard stuck with me: "The Prayer." I think its lyrics are appropriate for today's inauguration celebration and for the new beginnings we are afforded every day.

"The Prayer"
I pray you'll be our eyes
And watch us where we go
And help us to be wise
In times when we don't know

Let this be our prayer
As we go our way
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your Grace
To a place where we'll be safe

I pray we'll find your light
And hold it in our hearts
When stars go out each night

Let this be our prayer
When shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe.

We ask that life be kind
We hope each soul will find
Another soul to love

Let this be our prayer
Just like every child
Needs to find a place,
Guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe

Have a wonderful Tuesday!