A year is not something to get through.

It is a life to notice.

Ordinary Things offers fifty-two reflections rooted in the Rule of Saint Benedict and the small encounters of everyday life. Each week pairs a reflection with one question, inviting you to return to it as the week unfolds.

There is no need to produce a new answer every day. A remembered moment, a conversation, or something you notice today can open the question again. Generous writing space gives you room to stay with what matters, without turning reflection into another task to finish.

• 52 short reflections, each with one question for the week
• Three pages of writing space each week
• Undated, so you can begin whenever you like

One question. Room to return.

Read one reflection near the beginning of your week. Write a first response to its question, then return to the same question each day. A few words can be enough. You can also reread what you have written and leave the page as it is. If you miss a day, there is no entry to make up.

The year moves through four sections: Paying attention, Sharing the day, When the day is difficult, and Receiving and releasing.

Rooted in Benedictine life

These personal reflections draw on Scripture and the Rule of Saint Benedict. Source notes distinguish the Rule’s original setting from its contemporary applications. You do not need to know the Rule before beginning. The introduction offers a brief account of Saint Benedict and explains the journal’s weekly rhythm.

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Sign up for one email when Ordinary Things: A Year of Reflection for the Life You Have is released. This does not subscribe you to the blog feed or the Rule PDF request list.

Brian Junyor

Brian is a Benedictine Oblate living in New Mexico. He writes about work, stewardship, prayer, and everyday life at Ordinary Things.

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