Talk With An Evening Reflection
A ten-minute end-of-day practice — the ancient examen in plain clothes — for noticing where the day held light.
Why review the day at all
Days that are never reflected on tend to blur into one another, and their gifts go uncounted. For centuries, Christians have ended the day with a brief, unhurried look back — not an audit, but a walk through the day with gratitude leading the way.
Ten minutes is plenty. Sit somewhere quiet, put the phone in another room, and let the day replay slowly.
“It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
— Lamentations 3:22-23
Five small movements
Settle — two slow breaths, and a simple 'Here I am.' Thank — find three moments worth gratitude, however ordinary: a meal, a text from a friend, ten minutes of sun. Notice — where were you most alive today, and where most drained? Those two moments usually have something to teach. Repair — if the day holds a wrong you did, name it plainly, receive forgiveness, and decide any amends. Release — hand tomorrow back before it starts; it does not need you awake all night to manage it.
“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.”
— Psalm 4:8
Let it stay small
The examen dies of ambition. If ten minutes becomes a burden, do five. If words fail, gratitude alone — three things, named slowly — is a complete evening prayer. The practice works by repetition across months, not by intensity on any single night.
Written and reviewed by Anderson Westfield — not generated on demand. If you are in crisis, please don’t carry it alone — see our safety page for immediate help lines.