Having children can be seem chaotic at times — running from one sporting event to another, taking kids to various doctors and specialist appointments, juggling emotional outbursts caused by teenage friendship issues — and that’s before we even begin to consider schoolwork and assessments. Mixed into this equation is our culture of constant improvement, the pressure to keep up with the Joneses, not to mention the demands of paying bills and making time to nourish relationships. It often feels like we’re behind the eight ball, as though we’ve forgotten something critically important.
The Marist Spirit invites us into something a little bit different - to slow down and return to what truly matters — presence, simplicity, and human relationship. In the midst of life’s chaos, Mary’s Way reminds us that we are not defined by our productivity or our children’s achievements, but by how we attune to God’s presence and how we care for one another. Each of the Marist founders, Francois Perrotton, Jean Marie Chavoin, John Claude Colin, Marcellin Champagnat, modelled a way of life that prioritised humility, simplicity, and care for those on the margins. In the same way, parents and caregivers are called to take a step back, so that Mary’s Charism and Spirit can live in us, can become a new way forward — not by saying “yes” to everything, but by learning when to say “no” to. Saying “no” to a job promotion, “no” to endless entertainment, “no” to buying a new car, “no” to trying to be perfect, “no” to our addictions. Only then can we say “yes” to Mary’s way for us in ourlives. We must create space for Mary’s Way to appear — a process that requires deep reflection, pondering, and a willingness to change. “yes” to family time. “yes” to taking time to stop and realise the goodness that already surrounds us. “yes” to prioritising God’s time. “yes” to listening to our children and not judging them. “yes” to quality time and not productive time. “Yes” to laughter and the joy of not always being perfect.
This is easier said than done. We may spend time reflecting on the meaning of our lives, but if Mary’s Spirit does not shape our choices and actions, those reflections remain just good intentions. We must be intentional in the paths we follow. We must actively seek Mary’s Way in our lives. We must take time to maybe pray in the wilderness of our lives. It may not always be clear or obvious — sometimes it lies hidden deep within our hearts, where the voice of God whispers to us who we are truly called to be. Do we miss this voice in our busyness? We are called to be still. We are invited to make a shift — a shift that ripples through our lives, to recognise a different flow or reorienting us toward Mary. We are invited to model what seems to be hidden and unknown, but is actually a reality which calls Christ to be born in us today.
Journal and reflect on the following
What parts of your daily routine feel most chaotic, and how might you slow down to rediscover what truly matters?
In what ways have you felt pressure to “keep up” or say “yes” to everything, and how has that affected your relationships and wellbeing?
What are some practical examples in your life where saying “no” might create space for something deeper and more meaningful?
How can the Marist values of humility, simplicity, and presence influence the way you approach family life and personal choices?
When was the last time you truly felt God’s presence in the midst of your busy life, and what helped you notice it?
How might you intentionally seek out “Mary’s Way” this week—in your conversations, decisions, or quiet moments?
What would it look like to model joy, stillness, and imperfection in your home or community, and how could that be a witness to others?
Discuss with those closest to you.
Song - Magnificat
Final Prayer
Loving God, In the chaos of our lives, help us to walk in Mary’s Way—quiet, courageous, and full of grace. Teach us to say “no” to what distracts us, and “yes” to the sacred moments hidden in everyday life. May we find You not in perfection or busyness, but in stillness, simplicity, and love. Like Mary, may we ponder deeply, listen closely, and respond generously. Awaken in us a heart that chooses presence over pressure, and a spirit attuned to Your gentle whisper calling us to become who we are truly meant to be. Amen.
(Audio Available)
