I’ve written on two different occasions about something called the prayer of examen. It’s a simple, daily practice of taking 10-15 minutes at the end of each day to review the events of the day and look for evidences of God.

Sometimes we’re aware of God’s presence with us in the day, and sometimes we’re not. The prayer of examen, or review of the day, gives us a chance to acknowledge God and to find God in places previously unseen.

When I practice a review of the day, a wide variety of moments can be called to mind:

Being saved from a potential car crash
The chance to participate in the eucharist at church
A text from a friend or loved one
An email that deeply touched me
That moment at the end of the day when all four of us — Kirk, me, Solomon, and Diva — pile on the bed to snuggle and make each other laugh
Remembering to pay a bill coming due
The chance to sit in quiet on my couch for a half hour, just reading and praying
Beautiful weather

These are evidences of God’s goodness toward me. Ways God provided for soul and body. Ways I was opened to love and grace.

It is a chance to notice and give thanks.

Could a review of the day be helpful to you?