The first day after a long weekend is often challenging, O God. May we feel your calming presence as we deal with whatever comes our way today. Let us not be overwhelmed by the to do list that has grown while we were away. Help us to be fully present to those around us today as they too are feeling the anxieties and pressures that seem to come with this time of year. May we see you as we look into the eyes of those we meet and may we treat them with the love to which you have called us. May we see the wonder and beauty surrounding us this and everyday. Amen