After a Good Day, It's Time for a Good Night

With just a few minutes left until this day is over, I am actually wanting to be concise (not really my forte). Today was a rather productive day, and so both my body and mind are spent, but I am a good sort of tired tonight. I worked just an hour shy of my full shift (usually ten hours!), then left work to cantor for two Ash Wednesday services at my local church. The services were held in the auditorium just north of the main church; they were short and simple, just right for the occasion.

The message of the evening was all about surrendering to God's will and worshiping Him with quiet reverence. Worshiping God isn't about making grand, public gestures; it's all about developing that personal relationship with Him, through prayer, meditation, doing good works, etc. It's very easy to get wrapped up in the glory of recognition from others, but that shouldn't be our main reason for doing what we do in life. Recognition and reputation are fleeting, but the reward that comes from living with enduring love lasts a lifetime. (In case you haven't yet caught on, I have an alliteration addiction. :P) [edit: I wanted to go more into a discussion about the idea of surrender, but I am now aware of the time and my increasing randomness, so I'd better save it for another day.]

I must say, I am a bit surprised by how much I have spoken of God these past few days. I have never been one to preach my religious beliefs, but when something---anything---inspires me, I am always inclined to share it with others. I am not always aware of the effect I have on other people, but I know how they have affected me throughout my life, whether I have known them my entire life or encountered them for just a brief moment, and their willingness to share a little (and sometimes big) part of who they are has made all the difference to me. So I am happy to share what's on my mind... you never know what might hit home with someone.

There I go again, getting lost on endless tangents... Have I made any sense tonight? Has anything landed with any of you? Am I just regurgitating things I've heard over and over again, or has anything original come from this late-night rambling? Whenever I make an attempt to keep things concise, I always seem to fall short... or long? That's my cue, folks: Good night. Better luck tomorrow.