As Pope Benedict XVI once noted, a relaxing, getaway vacation (especially one spent outdoors) is good for both body and soul. Nature is so beautiful during the summer months – especially for those of us in the northeast and midwest who savor these days of good weather.

It’s a time when families can spend quality time together and visit loved ones that may be far away. It’s also a wonderful time to catch up on your reading or see a good movie.

And, of course, it’s a perfect time to pause and reflect on God’s presence in your life. This could happen as you are admiring the beauty of a sunrise or sunset or a majestic scene of nature. Perhaps you’ll make the time to read a life of a saint or a book on the spiritual life or attend an event at your parish. Or maybe you’ll experience God’s love through the kindness and gentleness of a friend.

Here is one of my favorites prayers – perfect for a summer meditation since it takes place on the beach. Hope you enjoy it!

Footprints in the Sand

One night I had a dream...
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord, and
Across the sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand;
One belonged to me, and the other to the Lord.
When the last scene of my life flashed before us,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that many times along the path of my life,
There was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in my life
This really bothered me, and I questioned the Lord about it.
"Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you,
You would walk with me all the way;
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,
There is only one set of footprints.
I don't understand why in times when I
needed you the most, you should leave me.
The Lord replied, "My precious, precious
child. I love you, and I would never,
never leave you during your times of
trial and suffering.
When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."

You are a part of our Pauline Family of prayer. Please e-mail your prayer intentions to me. I'll place them in our book of prayer requests and I'll drop you a note of encouragement.

Sister Christine Salvatore, FSP