We began Lent this week with Ash Wednesday Liturgy. The ashes are to remind everyone of our human mortality “ashes to ashes, dust to dust” and as a symbol to others of our beliefs.

Lent is a time of reflection and is a solemn religious observance in the liturgical calendar. During the forty days of Lent, to be like Jesus we are encouraged to take the opportunity to resist temptations and use this time to become closer to God. During Lent, we can “fast” in various ways to connect with and honour Jesus, who fasted for forty days in the desert. Fasting may not always involve food.  

Jesus used his forty days to get away from distractions and communicate with God, we too can benefit from Lent by pushing aside at least some of the distractions of the world. We are reminded during the season of Lent that this time is really about a change of mind and heart, not just about changing some habits, that we may have picked up along the way.

Something to consider in Lent… The power of three little words.

• I’LL BE THERE -Being there for the other person is the greatest gift we can give.
• MAYBE YOU’RE RIGHT -This phrase diffuses an argument and restores frayed emotions; the flip side is the humility of admitting “maybe I’m wrong”.
• PLEASE FORGIVE ME -Many broken relationships could be restored and healed if people would admit their mistakes and ask for forgiveness.
• I THANK YOU -Gratitude is an exquisite form of courtesy.
• COUNT ON ME -A friend is one who walks in when others walk out. Loyalty is an essential ingredient for true friendship.

The Importance of Family Time

Let’s face it—life is busy! Between work and life responsibilities, the days pass us by in the blink of an eye. Unfortunately, this can have direct impacts on the time we spend with our children. A recent study in the Journal of Marriage and Family questions the impact the amount of time parents spend with their children has on the academic achievement, behaviour, and emotional well-being of their children. This is not to negate the importance of time spent with children, but rather, to reinforce the point that quality of time is much more important than quantity of time.  Children need high-quality time with parents and caregivers—that is what is most beneficial to children and what can have a positive effect on them as they grow. It isn’t about endless hours of time—it’s about how you choose to spend that time that truly matters.

As parents and caregivers, we can make choices to ensure time spent with our children is high-quality. I encourage you all to watch this quick 2-minute video to discover new ways to make time with your children:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IljMvbKLM0

Meaningful connections are about quality of time, not quantity of time. Keep it simple and connect with your child in ways that make sense for your lifestyle and relationship. Each connection has a lasting impact and provides the support and reassurance that your child needs. Remember, every little bit of time makes a positive impact.

God Bless

Megan