I caught the back to school bug last week. The malaise of summer broke, and I worked through my checklist of projects. I oiled squeaky doors, replaced door handles, and ordered in some extra decor for our schoolroom. I even started easing us back into the regular daily routine.

Our environment speaks to our subconscious. The decorations on the wall, the art around the house, all contribute to a cohesive message.

We went to a pizzeria for a birthday dinner, and there were five televisions within eyeshot of everyone at the table. We didn’t talk much, we just watched the Olympics. The environment of the restaurant didn’t invite us to relax and talk, it encouraged us to zone out right in front of each other.

I want my children to see books throughout their day, pictures and statues of saints, and beautiful art on our walls. I want an environment that quietly draws us into prayer, meditation, and reading throughout the day.

There’s more work to do, but I think we’re on the right path.

Tags: Community