Observation, Acknowledgement, Presence

I’m changing my perspective this month. I deem April as the month of Observation, Acknowledgement, and Presence.

You see, two weeks ago I received a call I did not see coming. The morning of March 17, 2025, started like any other Monday. Then my husband called me into the room and broke the news—my younger brother had passed away. I was in shock. He had been battling several health issues, but we never expected to lose him so soon. I imagine that’s always the way. Whether loss comes suddenly or after a long struggle, you’re never ready. You always wish for just one more day.

I was blessed to be able to fly to St. Louis the next morning to be with family. We spent the next week doing all the things to prepare for my brother's final bow…the viewing, memorial service, graveside service, and traditional church-basement luncheon complete with all the homemade dishes that bring comfort to grieving family and friends. 

So many questions, decisions, emotions, and moving parts to navigate. Yet one thing was clear—God’s presence was undeniable, beautifully orchestrating every detail.

Over the past two weeks, I’ve noticed how much more smoothly things moved when I paused, ever so briefly, let go of my plan, expectation (or frustration), and acknowledged God was near. When I let Him take the lead, wisdom followed, answers came, and the exact thing we needed was revealed. 

I was reminded of one of my favorite verses, Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him (submit to Him) and He will make your paths straight.” I witnessed this and experienced this truth. 

So today starts a new week, tomorrow a new month, and forever a new normal. I want to be intentional about doing three things I took away from the last two weeks. I want to slow down to observe every beautiful detail of the day. I want to hold my to-do list loosely and move through the day with an open mind, leaving space to acknowledge God as He moves and leads the way. I want to seek His presence and be fully present with those around me.