Jump, Meditate, Pray . . . Getting Through Finals Week

Monday, in celebration of the last day of classes, there was a Bubble Wrap Stomp in front of Schewel Hall, sponsored by the Spiritual Life Center. We had a blast! There is something therapeutic about popping bubble wrap, and it turns out jumping on it is even more fun. Even folks who wouldn’t risk the jumping smiled as they walked by, and echoes of giggles could be heard in the Dell.

Today marks the first day of exams, so you may be feeling a little stressed. If you need a light-hearted giggle, I invite you to watch the YouTube video of the Bubble Wrap Stomp. It will do your spirit well to see others letting loose (http://bit.ly/bubblestomp).
If a bit of meditation is more of your style, might I suggest sitting in a quiet place for ten minutes, breathing in calm and breathing out stress. Start with your feet, breathing calm into your feet and releasing the stress. Continue one part of the body at a time until you can take calm into your head and then release the last bit of stress.

If a prayer for anxiety is what you need, may I suggest this prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola:

Lord, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness,
give us the sense of your presence, your love, and your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust in your protecting love.
Bless us with your strengthening power
so nothing may frighten or worry us.
We trust that in living close to you,
we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things.

And if you are carefree and all your academics are behind you for now, here is Catherine Odell’s Prayer, entitled A Child’s Summer Vacation Prayer:

No more homework no more tests.
No more getting up for school.
No more book reports or studying.
My summer vacation begins today!
I’m so happy and I’m so free.
I want to read and get up late.
I want to ride my bike and swim.
I want to play more with my friends.
Please bless my summer days, dear God.
Keep me safe and happy.

May you get done what you need to and lay the other burdens aside and just be.

Blessings and good luck! Stephanie