Most of my afternoon was spent giving unto Ceaser.... or actually, getting Ceasar to give back unto me. In other words, I filled out and mailed in my tax forms. This was complicated by the fact that in 2009 I earned wages in two different states... one of them is getting short changed by my inability to understand the tax instructions. Regardless, I got them done!
I like to get my taxes done early. Living the disorganized and hectic lifestyle that I do, it's easy to forget to do important things. If I didn't do my taxes immediately after my W-2 arrived I would live happily until April 16th when I would wake in a cold sweat screaming, "I didn't do my taxes!"
Upon further reflection, I realize that saving important things until the last minute has been a hallmark of my spiritual life for quite some time too. For example, often, late at night when I am preparing for bed I realize that I have not prayed all day... but I am too tired to do so then. I'll pass by a Church realizing that I should stop in for Reconciliation... but I didn't plan for it and thus don't have enough time. Also, I always remember two minutes before Mass starts that I wanted to read the readings in advance. I have good intentions, but I am always too late.
With my taxes, I realize that the important things should be done first so that they are not done hastily at the last minute. Similar priority can be given to matters of the Spirit. The most important parts of our day, those leading us closer to God and aiding our healthy spiritual development, can be scheduled first and given priority.
No spiritual life is perfect, and sometimes matters of the world just have to get done in the current moment, I understand. But this is no reason to carelessly neglect our spiritual lives in those times when alternatives exist. Think... chew... pray.
Peace turtles!
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