Waking up my daughter each morning—especially when she’s in her usual sleepy state—takes a great deal of patience. I always try to wake her gently, hoping not to start the day on a sour note. But when she remains dazed and half-asleep, I inevitably find myself raising my voice. As the clock ticks closer to school time, I end up ushering her out of bed and into the bathroom, often more forcefully than I intended.
Yet tomorrow morning, I’m certain she’ll wake up early all on her own—because she’s going on a field trip to the ice rink. On days when there’s a school outing or even a simple picnic with her academy, she needs no prompting. Not only does she rise without being told, but she also asks to be woken up even earlier, sets multiple alarms, and lets her dad know exactly when she plans to get up. With a clear goal in mind, she prepares herself wholeheartedly, creating the right environment and readying both her mind and body.
Looking at her peacefully asleep after finishing all her preparations, many thoughts crossed my mind. The purpose of my life of faith is for my soul to receive salvation and return to heaven. If that purpose is truly clear in my heart, shouldn’t I be spiritually alert without needing anyone to remind me? I found myself reflecting on how earnestly I’m preparing for the kingdom of heaven, and whether my faith is as focused and intentional as it ought to be.