Saying Goodbye, Starting Over, and Transitioning

Change is always hard. Transitions in life are difficult. Goodbyes are never easy. Endings are rarely joyful. But today, Fr. Mike suggests that beginnings are even more crucial. He encourages us to take 3 steps whenever we start over, and to let each one of ourselves “be a beginner.”

Be patient with yourself.

Don’t freak out.

And be willing to ask for help.

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[ObsessiveFanNumber]

Well shoot, you had to go and make me cry at the end, Father. My ex and I thought we were going to get married. However, he felt a strong call to the priesthood. We broke up a little over a month ago, and next week, he is leaving for seminary. Tomorrow will be the last time I see him one-on-one in person until maybe Easter. Saying goodbye is hard. But praying that we both remain strong. May the trials be purifying, not destructive. May we both be gentle with ourselves - we've left that home, and it's OK to still be a beginner after a month away from it. May the journey follow God's path, whatever it may be.

[madelinesanchez]

I can definitely relate. My husband of 34 years died. So here I am now a widow living alone. I had to sell my house and downsize to a much smaller place, besides the overwhelming grief I was going through. Now, nearly a year and a half later, I have finally transitioned to a new life on my own. I still miss my husband every day, but thanks to prayers and support from family and friends and thanks to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I am able to look forward to each new day. Patience is definitely the key. 🙏✝️🙏

[EsmeraldaArianne]

I sent in my resignation to my company because of toxic work environment. I was doubting myself for so long, but after last week's Reading from Ecclesiastes 1:2, I submitted it. Fr Mike your video couldn't have come at a more perfect time 🙏🏼❤️

[actuallyjacksonw]

I’m a teenager going through something big right now and trying to get through a sinful habit. I’ve been trying for so long and I just need you guys to please pray for me lots and storm heaven with prayers so I can get over my habit. Thank you very much.

[gloria.R.]

The best thing abt Fr. Schmitz is that hes not only a great priest but also a great life coach😄

[craigsalvatore]

I am a 64-year-old man and want to say that you are a beautiful person and priest, Fr. Mike. Thank you for your videos. You bring me so much peace through your messages—and I love your sense of humor. May God abundantly bless you, as you have blessed me.

[meekam]

I want to leave my hometown and toxic work environment, worked there for over 12 years, it's a bar where employees are barely sober, and I've decided to stop drinking. Been sober almost 1 month now! I know the move will be scary but I'm trusting Him completely with my home, finances.

[lgb]

Recently, my spouse died, and I had to say goodbye to my old life and I am beginning a brand new personal life. My life is now lonely, painful, confusing, and my family and friends think it’s all kinda funny because I’m not supposed to need anyone anymore. It’s not funny or cute. I’m praying often, relying on God completely and surrendering my life.

Thank you Father Mike!

[pacificano]

God's timing is too good. I'm just starting a new job, and Father Mike's gave great advice about being humble as a new beginner even if you have expertise. I needed this.

[Saturns]

As others have said, I needed to hear this. Leaving behind toxic people or things after more than 10 years can be hard bc it feels comfortably uncomfortable. But hold on, stay put, let go and let God...even if the answer is being alone. Alone is better than miserable.

[paulnebeling]

Retired at the start of the year. Moving to the other side of the world next month. Really appreciate the pep talk, even at my age. Never stop learning. Never stop growing. Never EVER stop praying. ALWAYS trust in the Lord.

[ChiaraDBrown]

I just moved with my entire family from the US to Italy about 2 months ago, this really helps me.

[gabrielledemoulin]

Retirement is another life event that is so challenging. Leaving friends, a scheduled routine, a job you believed in, duties and responsibilities -- and seeing your house duties in a new way 😱 aren't easy shifts! Learning how to allow yourself to be retired is so difficult and humbling, but it will happen!

Thanks be to God for this wonderful life challenge and beautiful blessing!

[Gleek]

Needed to hear this one today- starting a brand new job in a new area in about 3 weeks- leaning on my trust in Him to keep going

[JenniMeer]

I’ve enrolled in the RCIA and this was timely for me too. 😊

[Allison_Forte]

Thank you Father Mike! I’m a teacher and this the the time of the summer where my anxiety starts, worrying about the new school year and all my new school kids.

[carolhensen]

Huge life change, grief, my beautiful husband, the best of the best, was called home to Jesus Christ……Thank you for your kind words, God Bless….much Christian love to you Father Mike….

[LydiaJairus]

I am transitioning into a new life of new job, married, new friends, new religion as a Catholic at the age of 40. I am looking forward, and I pray Lord Jesus to guide me.

[JurkusMartynas]

I left my job the day this video came out. Everything happens for a reason.

[Veritas]

I've been struggling so hard at my new job for all the reasons you've mentioned. Very timely as always Fr. Praying for you.