It's crazy to think that a little over eight months ago, I returned from one of the most eye-opening and meaningful experiences of my life, a retreat by the name of Kairos XXI. If you're unfamiliar with what Kairos is, the word itself is an ancient Greek word that means the opportune moment. The Kairos retreat is a four day retreat for high school students that focuses on the strengthening of relationships with fellow retreatants, one's self, and God.

As Kairos XXII is just around the corner, I've found myself reflecting more and more on my Kairos experience and the ways in which it has impacted my life. One thing that makes Kairos such a special retreat is the saying "Life the Fourth." Without giving away too many details, because the magic behind Kairos is supposed to remain somewhat secretive, to "live the fourth" means to life each day like you live the last day of the retreat. The last day is so special because you take all that you've learned from the retreat and enter back into the world.

It's difficult to summarize just how Kairos has influenced me. There are concrete effects, like how my view of God changed, the strengthening of bonds with my classmates, and the newfound "Kai-high" that I experienced. There were also changes in my life, though, that I did not notice until reflecting more recently. These changes aren't monumental, but have slowly taken ahold of me over time. I like to think that I have become a bit more understanding, a bit less prone to judgment, and a whole lot more loving of those around me. I've learned to see beauty in the struggle of life. And I believe it's Kairos that I have to thank for these adjustments.

To everyone on my Kairos, wherever you are, you're always in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're constantly seeking to better the relationships you have with others and with God, and you make time to reflect despite your busy schedules. If you're anything like me, you have to remind yourself to dust off your Kairos binders once in a while. Even if you haven't talked to your Kairos group members in forever, give them a call and ask how their day was. Hold each other and yourself accountable for living the fourth.

To everyone going on Kairos soon, know that this retreat is whatever you chose it to be. Kairos is truly what you put into it. You'll learn that from the first moment you arrive. It’s true. There are so many people who find it to be a life-changing experience, while some are not affected by it much at all. Whatever you take away from Kairos, I hope that you learn what it means to really life the fourth.