In the Season of Littles

By Kristen Bourgeois

I knew that my life would change once I got married. And, I knew it would change again when we had children. But I was quite naive in how much life would change.

One of the aspects of life that has really changed in this season of having little kids is my prayer life.

How do you keep your prayer life with little ones? It has been a lot of trial and error. I know some moms who wake before the kiddos for quiet prayer time. I know other moms who do prayer time while the children nap.

For me, I pray mentally throughout the day. Even if it’s just to say, “Come, Holy Spirit.”  I’ve also had to learn to accept interruptions when I am able to say a rosary or when I sit to read or journal. It was St. Therese of Lisieux who welcomed interruptions in her work – seeing them as the will of God. I am learning to practice that in my own life. And, it’s not always easy.

I’ve also learned to share my prayer time with my little ones. This year, I decided to commit to a holy hour at our adoration chapel. Knowing that Jesus is waiting for me along with the person I am to relieve has kept me dedicated to prayer time with Jesus in adoration. I used to make my holy hour by myself. But, as life happens, I am learning to pivot to my needs and the needs of my family.

My 3-year-old son has been requesting to attend adoration with me.  At first, I was a bit hesitant because, well, he is 3. I also didn’t want to disturb other people’s prayer time.  But I felt like the Lord was inviting me to share my time with him with my son and to be obedient in bringing the little ones to him.

I know what my prayer life was like before having a family. It was so rich, and I do really miss it. I know the Lord is always teaching me something in every different season. The Lord is teaching me to persevere, to be creative and to share my prayer time with my little ones. I know I can look back at the season before children and be confident that God gave me what I needed in that season. And, I can trust that he will give me what I need in this season too.