The Morning Routine: A Reflection

The Metro-North train for Grand Central Terminal swiftly travels along the Hudson River at Annsville Creek.

Mornings are best when they offer a chance to gather your thoughts, pray, and embrace positivity without interruption. Yet, not everyone shares this sentiment. Some wake up brimming with energy, filling the space with noise, and you can’t help but wonder—are they ahead in life or falling behind? Their morning rituals may include a cigarette, a drink, or a moment with weed, TV news, seemingly indifferent to those who cherish a quiet, peaceful start to the day. For those who prefer a slower, intentional morning—to begin with God, even if they falter later—it is a sacred time. Waking up to pray, to express gratitude, or to prepare for early mass can feel like an anchor amidst life’s chaos.

This reflection, I suppose, is about routine—its importance and its inevitable disruptions. A steady routine provides stability, a rhythm that keeps us grounded. But life, unpredictable as ever, intervenes. Something shifts, the rhythm breaks, and suddenly everything feels off track. Yet, these disruptions should not be seen as permanent setbacks. Rather, they serve as reminders to persevere, to return to the routine as soon as possible.

As I write these words, I find myself attempting change as well. Lately, I’ve been working on cutting back on sugar and alcohol, having noticed their adverse effects. Change isn’t easy, but mornings—those moments of clarity and intention—often provide the strength to begin again.