Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Thursday, May 12, 2011
A letter to my daughters
My dearest daughters,
I'm not one for offering unsolicited advice; however, every now and again you do seek my thoughts and opinion regarding adulthood, dating, marriage and family. So, I've decided, for what it's worth, to share my "wisdom" here with you and your "sisters" - the young women of your generation and maybe even for your own daughters who may be interested in what their grandmother has to say. Some of this advice I myself heeded, but not all of it and I regret, now, that I had not. You probably have friends, acquaintances and relatives who may not agree with everything I'm going to share with you. I suppose some will think me too naive and unsophisticated or accuse me of being too religious. So be it. As a serious Catholic, living in a secular society that scorns so much of what I believe, I've actually grown accustomed to it.
So here we go -
I love the idea of praying for your future spouse, even though you may not have a young man in mind at all. Pray for the well-being of his soul and for his decision-making, that he will always be guided by the Holy Spirit. Someday when you meet, you will have already begun somewhat of a relationship with him. A spiritual one. How beautiful to one day tell him that you've been praying for him long before you even met. (I think it's a worthwhile practice for parents to pray for the future spouses of their children, too.) Although many are called to marriage and family life, we know that some are called to the consecrated religious life. What then, of these prayers? I'm sure God hears them all the same and perhaps applies them to our holy, Mother Church or to the members of a particular religious community. And still others may be called to the single life. Whatever your future holds, know that our prayers are never wasted.
You've heard the old adage, "Practice makes perfect." Well, it's true. Practice, what? Virtue! The world beckons young people to unchastity and impurity. Everywhere you look - movies, television, books, music videos, fashion - the message is clear: the sexier you appear, act, feel, the better. Lies, all lies. People hear the word modesty and I suppose they immediately assume we (those militant modesty mongers), wish that all women wrap themselves from head to toe in burqas. It is possible to dress fashionably and not look like you are selling yourself to men on a street corner. Sex may sell, but honestly, in the end I believe it is purity that many find most attractive.
I often hear those in favor of artificial birth control sneer, "Abstinence?! Give me a break, after all I'm human!" I hear it in defense of sex outside of marriage but, by many married couples, too, who have difficulty accepting natural family planning methods and obviously haven't a clue about what chastity in marriage means. What they don't know is that by practicing abstinence, particularly outside of marriage, and by not giving in to temptation one is actually being more human! God made us in His image and likeness. Think about what that means. He wants us to be like Him - free from the bondage of sin. When we choose to live a life of sin, we choose to be less human because we drive ourselves further and further away from His image and likeness.
Is it easy, this life of virtue? Not necessarily, because we are, after all, fallen human beings and we suffer the effects of original sin. But we cannot argue that the tools and the opportunities for grace aren't there to help us turn away from sins of the flesh or from any sin. The Holy Spirit working through the Church, has given us a road map to holiness, the means to practice and grow in virtue. It may be wise to examine these tools in more detail a little later on, but for now they are at least worth mentioning. For starters we've been handed down Holy Scripture - the very Word of God - where Christ instructs us how to live a life of virtue. We are guided not only by God's Ten Commandments, but by the very words and commands of His Son, e.g., the greatest and first commandment, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." (Matthew 22:37) and the Beatitudes from His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5), and so on. We are directed, too, by the precepts of the Church, the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. We are invited and encouraged to live a life a grace by regularly making use of the sacraments, by prayer and meditation. We can never cease learning about the triune God and our relationship with Him, through the volumes of spiritual writing that have been handed down to us over many centuries. We are encouraged to participate in continuing, life-long catechesis. We have many, good very learned, holy priests and spiritual directors to help us along our way.
Certainly, you will encounter circumstances and events that seem meaningless and make no sense unless you gaze at them through the lens of eternity. Discern and choose wisely. Ask yourself, how will this decision, this action, this choice affect me eternally? Are there moral, or ethical ramifications? We, as our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI says, are living eternity now. Our choices have consequences now and forever. Pray to know His will and follow it. Making the wrong choices often makes life much harder than it has to be, but God is loving and infinitely merciful. When we say no to Him, he consistently calls us back through the sacrament of confession. Know that He never ceases to love you and take every opportunity to bathe in His mercy.
Know yourself. Ask God to show you how he sees you. Sometimes I'm surprised by what I do see - in a very good way! His love is infinite and even though I mess up - too often - Jesus always loves me and is very forgiving. It has been beneficial for me to finally understand my own personality and temperament types, as well as your father's and those of my children. Once I figured it out, my expectations became more realistic resulting in more patience and understanding on my part. Realize, as your family grows, although there will certainly be family traits common to all your offspring, each child is unique. Most times, where discipline is concerned, what works well for one doesn't always work so well for the other. Be flexible and trust yourself. You know your child best.
You already know how strongly I feel about staying home to raise your family. Do not work outside the home unless you absolutely must. If possible, have lots of kids. There will be many challenges, but far more rewards. Entrust each of them to the care of Our Lady and go to her often for reassurance and consolation. I also really don't think a three or four year old needs to go to preschool. I think that in most cases it's the mom who needs the break that sending her child off to preschool affords. I am not necessarily opposed to an institutionalized education; however, I do think in many cases home-schooling is the best option. Even if you do send your child off to school, always remember: you are his first and primary educator, even the Church says so. (Click here to read what Father John Hardon, S.J. has to say about it.)
Keep your children away from television as much as possible. In fact, don't have a TV at all. Supply them with good, wholesome literature, lots of plain paper and pencils, crayons, markers or paints. Foster their imaginations. Give them a few good toys that help in this endeavor. Let them have sheets and blankets to lay over the furniture to make tents or caves. Spend lots of time outside. Let them explore and learn all they can about God's creation. Teach them to cook, clean, and build things (I'm sure Grandpa is willing to lend a hand!).
Always spend time with your kids and listen to them. They have a lot to say and you may even learn a thing or two.
Teach them early on about God, about all our spiritual treasures. Whisper in that baby's ear that Jesus loves him and tell him often, every day, as he grows.
Work with your spouse at keeping the romance alive in your marriage. There will be seasons throughout your married life when you will feel the love more than at other times. Realize that your relationship always needs nurturing. Find a trustworthy babysitter and take advantage of date nights, or occasional weekend get-aways. And don't forget to simply sit and snuggle. Always tell each other, "I love you."
My sweets, whether you are married or not, maintain and cultivate good, solid, faith-filled friendships with other women and other couples who share your worldview. Get together regularly and offer mutual support and encouragement. Every now and then, just let your hair down and go out with the girls for an evening of fun and laughter. Keep close to your family, too. To me and your dad, to one another and to your brother.
Finally, my best advice is to remain close to the heart of Jesus. Just as a mother knows her child best, He knows you best. Spending time alone with Christ, gazing into His eyes as He gazes into your soul is essential to growing in love and holiness.
I love you, my darlings, with all my heart. You are forever in my prayers, please keep me in yours. I look forward to our continuing conversations and hope to examine some of these thoughts more closely in future correspondence.
With deepest affection,
Mama
I'm not one for offering unsolicited advice; however, every now and again you do seek my thoughts and opinion regarding adulthood, dating, marriage and family. So, I've decided, for what it's worth, to share my "wisdom" here with you and your "sisters" - the young women of your generation and maybe even for your own daughters who may be interested in what their grandmother has to say. Some of this advice I myself heeded, but not all of it and I regret, now, that I had not. You probably have friends, acquaintances and relatives who may not agree with everything I'm going to share with you. I suppose some will think me too naive and unsophisticated or accuse me of being too religious. So be it. As a serious Catholic, living in a secular society that scorns so much of what I believe, I've actually grown accustomed to it.
So here we go -
I love the idea of praying for your future spouse, even though you may not have a young man in mind at all. Pray for the well-being of his soul and for his decision-making, that he will always be guided by the Holy Spirit. Someday when you meet, you will have already begun somewhat of a relationship with him. A spiritual one. How beautiful to one day tell him that you've been praying for him long before you even met. (I think it's a worthwhile practice for parents to pray for the future spouses of their children, too.) Although many are called to marriage and family life, we know that some are called to the consecrated religious life. What then, of these prayers? I'm sure God hears them all the same and perhaps applies them to our holy, Mother Church or to the members of a particular religious community. And still others may be called to the single life. Whatever your future holds, know that our prayers are never wasted.
You've heard the old adage, "Practice makes perfect." Well, it's true. Practice, what? Virtue! The world beckons young people to unchastity and impurity. Everywhere you look - movies, television, books, music videos, fashion - the message is clear: the sexier you appear, act, feel, the better. Lies, all lies. People hear the word modesty and I suppose they immediately assume we (those militant modesty mongers), wish that all women wrap themselves from head to toe in burqas. It is possible to dress fashionably and not look like you are selling yourself to men on a street corner. Sex may sell, but honestly, in the end I believe it is purity that many find most attractive.
I often hear those in favor of artificial birth control sneer, "Abstinence?! Give me a break, after all I'm human!" I hear it in defense of sex outside of marriage but, by many married couples, too, who have difficulty accepting natural family planning methods and obviously haven't a clue about what chastity in marriage means. What they don't know is that by practicing abstinence, particularly outside of marriage, and by not giving in to temptation one is actually being more human! God made us in His image and likeness. Think about what that means. He wants us to be like Him - free from the bondage of sin. When we choose to live a life of sin, we choose to be less human because we drive ourselves further and further away from His image and likeness.
Is it easy, this life of virtue? Not necessarily, because we are, after all, fallen human beings and we suffer the effects of original sin. But we cannot argue that the tools and the opportunities for grace aren't there to help us turn away from sins of the flesh or from any sin. The Holy Spirit working through the Church, has given us a road map to holiness, the means to practice and grow in virtue. It may be wise to examine these tools in more detail a little later on, but for now they are at least worth mentioning. For starters we've been handed down Holy Scripture - the very Word of God - where Christ instructs us how to live a life of virtue. We are guided not only by God's Ten Commandments, but by the very words and commands of His Son, e.g., the greatest and first commandment, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." (Matthew 22:37) and the Beatitudes from His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5), and so on. We are directed, too, by the precepts of the Church, the spiritual and corporal works of mercy. We are invited and encouraged to live a life a grace by regularly making use of the sacraments, by prayer and meditation. We can never cease learning about the triune God and our relationship with Him, through the volumes of spiritual writing that have been handed down to us over many centuries. We are encouraged to participate in continuing, life-long catechesis. We have many, good very learned, holy priests and spiritual directors to help us along our way.
Certainly, you will encounter circumstances and events that seem meaningless and make no sense unless you gaze at them through the lens of eternity. Discern and choose wisely. Ask yourself, how will this decision, this action, this choice affect me eternally? Are there moral, or ethical ramifications? We, as our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI says, are living eternity now. Our choices have consequences now and forever. Pray to know His will and follow it. Making the wrong choices often makes life much harder than it has to be, but God is loving and infinitely merciful. When we say no to Him, he consistently calls us back through the sacrament of confession. Know that He never ceases to love you and take every opportunity to bathe in His mercy.
You already know that much of what I described above certainly applies to married life. I cannot emphasize enough the need for you and your husband (future husband to you who are unmarried) to pray unceasingly, together and apart, about all the decisions you two must make. Involve God in every aspect of your lives together. Marriage really does take three. Really. Make frequent use of the sacraments; particularly Mass and Confession. Communicate. You will not always agree, but talk about issues or difficulties fairly. No hitting below the belt. Never, ever speak ill of your husband to your children. Praise him and lift him up - let them know how much you love and respect him.
Know yourself. Ask God to show you how he sees you. Sometimes I'm surprised by what I do see - in a very good way! His love is infinite and even though I mess up - too often - Jesus always loves me and is very forgiving. It has been beneficial for me to finally understand my own personality and temperament types, as well as your father's and those of my children. Once I figured it out, my expectations became more realistic resulting in more patience and understanding on my part. Realize, as your family grows, although there will certainly be family traits common to all your offspring, each child is unique. Most times, where discipline is concerned, what works well for one doesn't always work so well for the other. Be flexible and trust yourself. You know your child best.
You already know how strongly I feel about staying home to raise your family. Do not work outside the home unless you absolutely must. If possible, have lots of kids. There will be many challenges, but far more rewards. Entrust each of them to the care of Our Lady and go to her often for reassurance and consolation. I also really don't think a three or four year old needs to go to preschool. I think that in most cases it's the mom who needs the break that sending her child off to preschool affords. I am not necessarily opposed to an institutionalized education; however, I do think in many cases home-schooling is the best option. Even if you do send your child off to school, always remember: you are his first and primary educator, even the Church says so. (Click here to read what Father John Hardon, S.J. has to say about it.)
Keep your children away from television as much as possible. In fact, don't have a TV at all. Supply them with good, wholesome literature, lots of plain paper and pencils, crayons, markers or paints. Foster their imaginations. Give them a few good toys that help in this endeavor. Let them have sheets and blankets to lay over the furniture to make tents or caves. Spend lots of time outside. Let them explore and learn all they can about God's creation. Teach them to cook, clean, and build things (I'm sure Grandpa is willing to lend a hand!).
Always spend time with your kids and listen to them. They have a lot to say and you may even learn a thing or two.
Teach them early on about God, about all our spiritual treasures. Whisper in that baby's ear that Jesus loves him and tell him often, every day, as he grows.
Work with your spouse at keeping the romance alive in your marriage. There will be seasons throughout your married life when you will feel the love more than at other times. Realize that your relationship always needs nurturing. Find a trustworthy babysitter and take advantage of date nights, or occasional weekend get-aways. And don't forget to simply sit and snuggle. Always tell each other, "I love you."
My sweets, whether you are married or not, maintain and cultivate good, solid, faith-filled friendships with other women and other couples who share your worldview. Get together regularly and offer mutual support and encouragement. Every now and then, just let your hair down and go out with the girls for an evening of fun and laughter. Keep close to your family, too. To me and your dad, to one another and to your brother.
Finally, my best advice is to remain close to the heart of Jesus. Just as a mother knows her child best, He knows you best. Spending time alone with Christ, gazing into His eyes as He gazes into your soul is essential to growing in love and holiness.
I love you, my darlings, with all my heart. You are forever in my prayers, please keep me in yours. I look forward to our continuing conversations and hope to examine some of these thoughts more closely in future correspondence.
With deepest affection,
Mama
- Some recommended reading:
The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman.
The Temperament God Gave You: The Classic Key to Knowing Yourself, Getting Along with Others, and Growing Closer to the Lord by Art and Laraine Bennett
The Temperament God Gave Your Spouse by Art and Laraine Bennett
Blessed Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body and other books based on it found here. (Please note: I have not read many of them, but they look promising.)
Love and Responsibility by Karol Wojtyla (Blessed Pope John Paul, II)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Daybook for a May day
Outside My Window
I am Wearing
From the Kitchen
And the vegetable garden ...
A Picture Thought or two or three or ...
It is a beautiful Spring day. Green, everything is GREEN!
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| This photo was taken a week ago. There are many more leaves on the trees today. |
Red plaid cotton lounge pants (aka p.j.s) and a navy blue sweatshirt that once belonged to Papa Ern. ♥On Pandora
Matt Maher RadioAround the House
Easter decorations, because there are many more weeks to celebrate!
From the Kitchen
Excitedly anticipating the arrival of local spring and summer fresh fruits and vegetables. Can't wait!!I am Hearing
The pitter-patter of Holly's little paws on the wood floor.I am Reading
Ok, so I'm still reading Jesus of Nazareth ...I am Hoping & Praying
There have been many sad, even tragic events lately. Deaths of loved ones and the loved ones of friends and other family members. Destruction and lives lost to recent massive tornadoes in the south. Other events are unsettling, too, - the killing of Osama Bin Laden. This news prompted celebrations of joy in the streets of New York and Washington, D.C. I did not rejoice at the news. My first reaction was, "Well, they finally got him." followed by a feeling of apprehension for possible retaliation. Later, I appreciated and embraced the words of the Director of the Holy See Press Office, P. Federico Lombardi who issued the following:
"Osama Bin Laden - as everyone knows - has had the gravest responsibility for spreading hatred and division among people, causing the deaths of countless people, and exploiting religion for this purpose.
Faced with the death of a man, a Christian never rejoices, but reflects on the serious responsibility of everyone before God and man, and hopes and pledges that every event is not an opportunity for a further growth of hatred, but of peace.”
I hope and pray that we will all one day know peace in this very volatile, dangerous world. Praying for our military personnel, too. For their safety and well-being and for all those around the world who suffer at the hands of injustice and violence.I am Pondering
May is traditionally "Mary's Month" and so ...
"From Mary we learn to surrender to God's Will in all things. From Mary we learn to trust even when all hope seems gone. From Mary we learn to love Christ her Son and the Son of God!" ~ Blessed Pope John Paul, II (who was beatified on May 1, 2011 - great rejoicing indeed!)I am Grateful
For the opportunity to recently gather with friends I haven't seen in many years. We all attended high school together - some of us haven't seen each other in over 30 years! No longer bogged down by self-consciousness and teenage angst, we had a great time catching up and reminiscing about the old days. I am looking forward to another reunion soon!In the Garden
And the vegetable garden ...
One of My Favorite Things
Farmer Jim is ready!
Our strawberry patch can be seen in the right front side of the fence in area.
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| The statue of Mary for our garden that we inherited from Jim's parents. |
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| Holly at Belmont Abbey College |
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| St. Walburga on the grounds of Belmont Abbey College |
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| St. Walburga |
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| The monks' garden shed at BAC |
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| In the garden at BAC behind Megan's dorm. |
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| St. Francis of Assisi in the garden. |
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| Looking up the hill from the garden behind Meg's dorm. |
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| The gardens and grounds of Belmont Abbey are beautiful and peaceful. |
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| My baby girl! |
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| Freshman year - successfully completed! Yay, Megan!! |
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Feeling Great!
Isaac is growing up so fast! He is almost one!
So many people - friends, family, co-workers - continue to ask how his mommy, Katie, is doing. Many continue to pray for her. I am grateful for the thoughts, prayers and concern. Katie reports that she is "feeling great!" She remains under the watchful eye of her neurologist, who has been a God-send.
When I see her, so healthy and joyful, it is difficult to imagine how sick she was six months ago.
Marriage and motherhood - she wears it well!
She simply beams in loving affection for her beloved Sam
and their precious, little Isaac Jogues Samuel,
who fills all our hearts to the brim ...
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!
A Happy and Glorious Easter!
Alleluia, He is Risen!!
O death, where is your Sting?
O hell, where is your victory?
O Church, come stand in the light.
The glory of God has defeated the night.
O death, where is your sting?
O hell, where is your victory?
O Church, come stand in the light.
Our God is not dead!
He's alive! He's alive!
- from Christ is Risen by Matt Maher
Friday, April 22, 2011
For Good Friday
No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends (Jn 15,13)
O death, you bring forth fruit of life eternal; O mighty death, render mine calm and sure. You, O death, are life eternal; beneath your solemn shadow I dare to hope (cf. Ps 36[35],8). O death, bestow on me one feeble spark of eternal life, and let it burn in me for ever. O glorious and most fruitful death, death on which hangs all my salvation: you are the sure covenant of love whereby I have been redeemed, the inviolable pledge of my reconciliation to God. O triumphant death, from you there shines forth a love incomparable in earth or heaven.
O death, you work of goodness, you are a source of sweet trust to my heart. O death, lavishing on us all your love, you contain everything that is good. Be my guardian that my own death may be to dwell sweetly beneath your shade (cf. Sg 2,3). O merciful death, you are my blessedness, my allotted portion (Ps 16[15],5), my redemption and rich inheritance.
Saint Gertrude of Helfta (1256-1301), Benedictine nun Exercises VII, None (trans. Thomas Alder Pope; SC 127, p. 281f. rev.)
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
They are your gift to Me
At a point between Christ washing the feet of His apostles and the Last Supper, we find in the Gospel of Saint John, Chapter 17 what is known as the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. Volumes of exegeses on John 17 have been written by the Church fathers, theologians, biblical scholars and others. In his book, Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week: From the Entrance into Jerusalem to the Resurrection, Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) devotes roughly 25 pages - all of Chapter Four - to exploring the meaning John 17. He offers a succinct, yet fascinating analysis of Christ's beautiful, moving prayer to His Father.
I am not a theologian or a biblical scholar. I rely on the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of holy Mother Church to guide me through the historical or literal interpretation, as well as the spiritual interpretation of biblical texts. This proves helpful whenever I spend time in quiet reflection on God's Word and it only enhances my understanding of its meaning for me personally. I encourage you to read John 17 and the commentary by any number of reliable sources, but for now, I wish to share my own prayerful, personal reflection, specifically of verse 24.
First of all, I love that Saint John allows us to be privy to this profoundly intimate, compelling plea to the Father from the Son. At first glance, it is obvious that Jesus is praying for His beloved apostles (Peter, Andrew, James, John and so on); however, in digging deeper we realize that Jesus is also praying for all of His disciples; for all of His followers then and now, including us. With this in mind, the sheer depth of love reflected in six simple, yet powerful words Jesus directs to His Father, pierces this wretched, little heart of mine, shattering it to pieces.
We are His gifts because He loves us beyond our ability to comprehend. He loves us so much that He, the Creator of the universe, became one like us, taking on our sin - He who is sinless, blameless. He loves us so much that He wants more than anything for us to live with Him abundantly and forever, and so He suffered an excruciatingly painful death - He who had known no pain. He willingly, lovingly, sacrificed His life for us so that we may live.
He is our Gift from the Father.
I am not a theologian or a biblical scholar. I rely on the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of holy Mother Church to guide me through the historical or literal interpretation, as well as the spiritual interpretation of biblical texts. This proves helpful whenever I spend time in quiet reflection on God's Word and it only enhances my understanding of its meaning for me personally. I encourage you to read John 17 and the commentary by any number of reliable sources, but for now, I wish to share my own prayerful, personal reflection, specifically of verse 24.
First of all, I love that Saint John allows us to be privy to this profoundly intimate, compelling plea to the Father from the Son. At first glance, it is obvious that Jesus is praying for His beloved apostles (Peter, Andrew, James, John and so on); however, in digging deeper we realize that Jesus is also praying for all of His disciples; for all of His followers then and now, including us. With this in mind, the sheer depth of love reflected in six simple, yet powerful words Jesus directs to His Father, pierces this wretched, little heart of mine, shattering it to pieces.
"They are your gift to me." (John 17:24)We, you and me, are God's gift to His Son! The season of Lent invites us and urges us to meditate extensively on Christ's Passion. Over the last several weeks, I've been participating in Lenten devotions such as praying the Stations of the Cross and the Seven Sorrows Rosary. I've been listening to audio presentations on CD, reading articles and Lenten meditations explaining the details of Christ's Passion; how He bore the unbearable weight of the guilt of all the sins of all mankind on His shoulders on His way to Calvary. And now, realizing that we are God's gift to His son, these sins - my sins, my culpability in His suffering - assume a more significant meaning. The arrows of sorrow penetrate much more deeply, knowing that I, His gift from the Father, wound Him with every sin I commit. Imagine, we - gossips, liars, ingrates, egoists, idolaters, i.e., sinners - are His gifts! "They are your gift to me."
We are His gifts because He loves us beyond our ability to comprehend. He loves us so much that He, the Creator of the universe, became one like us, taking on our sin - He who is sinless, blameless. He loves us so much that He wants more than anything for us to live with Him abundantly and forever, and so He suffered an excruciatingly painful death - He who had known no pain. He willingly, lovingly, sacrificed His life for us so that we may live.
He is our Gift from the Father.
"We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the World."
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Rejoice, O Jerusalem!
Laetare Jerusalem: et conventum facite omnes qui diligitis eam: gaudete cum laetitia, qui in tristitia fuistis: ut exsultetis, et satiemini ab uberibus consolationis vestrae.
Midway through Lent the Church celebrates Laetare Sunday. Laetare is Latin for rejoice and is taken from the entrance antiphon for today's Mass: "Rejoice, Jerusalem! Be glad for her, you who love her; rejoice with her, you who mourned for her, and you will find contentment at her consoling breasts." The joy expressed on this particular Sunday is evident by the rose colored vestments worn by the clergy and the flowers permitted on the altar. Our Lenten penances continue for another few weeks, but this Sunday we are reminded of the hope of our salvation. Easter is drawing near! Rejoice, O Jerusalem!
My own Lenten journey, thus far, has been especially fruitful. (Thanks be to God for His Grace!) My excitement for Easter can hardly be contained and I, along with the whole body of Christ, rejoice on this special Sunday because we are almost there! But I am reminded, particularly in these final penitential weeks, of a joy that accompanies us - not only along our Lenten pilgrimage, but during our entire pilgrim-life on earth. This Joy weaves herself through our sorrow as we meditate on His via dolorosa. She is not a celebratory Joy. She is tranquil, serene. Her gentle, winding tributaries flow through our souls as we unite our suffering to His, as we become one with Him in His agony and death. We discover her only when we respond to our Father's invitation to enter into communion with our Savior's passion and thereby contribute to the redemption of the world. (Colossians 1:24) Such a wonderful, awesome gift!
During these final days of Lent, I pray that you and I be granted the grace to continue our journey in love and peace. May we rest in His most Sacred Heart and meditate on the supernatural mystery of our participation in the redemption of mankind. Let His love carry you to Easter - when we will, once and for all, proclaim his Kingship with shouts of Joy.
God Bless You!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
March Daybook, Going out like a Lion
Outside My Window
A cold gray rain falls quenching an earth just beginning to come alive. Color, with its promise, returns bit by bit despite the pelting of ice and the swirling of gentle snow befriending the rain. Pansies, cherry blossoms, forsythia, and daffodils dot an otherwise naked, bleak landscape. And buds - on maples, oaks, hydrangea, lilacs - ready to burst - signally the eventual and welcome departure of a stubborn winter reluctant to let go.On Pandora
"Ten Mile Stilts" - the Wailin' JennysAround the House
Spring cleaning continues ... at a snail's pace.From the Kitchen
Jim still cooks for an army. Leftovers bore me after awhile, but ...I am Hearing
Holly barking at someone, something ...I am Reading
Will mention only one of the four I have going right now: Jesus of Nazareth, Holy Week: From the Entrance into Jerusalem to the Resurrection. Everyone should read this book.I am Pondering
"The true Christian is not the kind of hero who owes his heroism to circumstances; he is not the accidental hero of a passing hour but a hero throughout a lifetime. His glory is that he overcomes the obstacles in his path; his goal is to possess God and find rest in Him. Can there be a greater honor than to serve God and belong to Him?" (The Imitation of Mary, De Rouville)I am Praying
For the lost souls ... the sheep who have wandered away.I am Hoping
For His peace to reside in restless hearts.I am Grateful
For the gift of Faith.One of My Favorite Things
Brewing a cup of tea and wrapping myself up in the comfort of home after a long afternoon of working away.A Picture Thought
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| The male attachment to the remote control begins early and it has nothing to do with watching TV. |
Monday, March 28, 2011
On the occasion of Holly giving Isaac a Bath
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| This is Isaac |
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| And this is Holly |
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| Holly thinks Isaac could use a bath. |
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| Holly's baths tickle, tickle, tickle ... |
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| "Okay, Holly, I've had enough of your tickly bathing!" |
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| Holly doesn't think Nana wiped away the potatoes and carrots well enough. "Umm, tastes just fine. I like giving this pup a bath!" |
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| "But Holly! That's my sensitive spot!!" |
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| Holly is determined to finish the job. |
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| "Can't forget to clean the ears!" |
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| "Okay, Holly, that's quite enough! I'm clean already!" |
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| "Now hold on, little rascal! Let me clean your hands!" |
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| Isaac has had enough, "I'm outta here!" |
Photos property of Darby C. Fitzpatrick (c) 2011.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
The Solemnity of Saint Joseph
Today is my husband's birthday. His middle name is Joseph, in honor of Saint Joseph whose solemnity we celebrate today. I'm pulling a piece from the archives and re-posting it here today. I originally posted it on this day last year. Saint Joseph, pray for us!
*********************
J.M.J
Lovingly dedicated to my beloved James Joseph Fitzpatrick, whose birthday is March 19, the Solemnity of our dear Saint Joseph.
How could this be?
He had never known anyone like her; had never known anyone as graceful as she.
Her goodness and her abiding faith in the Father had taken his breath away.
But now this crushing weight leaves him gasping.
She has defended her purity; claims she is still a virgin, that God is his father.
And he believes her with all his heart.
But who is he to raise this child? Just a simple man, surely not fit for a task of such magnitude?
But who is he to raise this child? Just a simple man, surely not fit for a task of such magnitude?
A million thoughts race through his head. Perhaps someone else is better suited.
He decides to leave her; he will divorce her quietly, to protect her from scandal and the harsh public punishment of the Law.
Fear and confusion do not prevent him from recognizing Him in a dream.
All of his life he has obeyed His law, His Word, why should now be any different?
Knowing his life will no longer be the same, he embraces his beloved promising love and protection.
He will raise the child as though he were his very own.
He chooses to trust Him, because he knows He is trustworthy.
Anxiously, he searches for shelter knowing full well the time is at hand.
Perhaps if he had pressed on instead of taking so much time to rest,
they would have arrived in time to secure a room at this insufficient inn.
The frazzled proprietor noticing her, takes pity and leads them to the shelter of a crude cave.
What else could he do?
His wife smiles appreciatively at the innkeeper and he offers him a little more than his asking price.
Now is not the time to worry about money.
Now is not the time to worry about money.
Softening, the old man promises to send his maidservant with food and water and a blanket or two.
Taking her feet in his hands he carefully wipes away the grime of their long and arduous journey.
Her hands cradle his face lifting his eyes to meet the tenderness of her own.
Her radiance is dazzling, even now.
He tells her not to worry. He tells her he will take care of her always.
Quickly, he fashions a mattress of hay, among the malodorous beasts whose feeding trough he has chosen for a cradle.
He prays silently, apologetically.
He recalls the words from the dream and is consoled.
It really doesn’t matter that there were no vacancies at the inn; the comforts of this world could never surpass the fulfillment of His kingdom.
Somehow he knows in his heart and soul, that his faith was about to be rewarded; that His kingdom was about to be established on earth that very night!
Who is this ancient man, Simeon, proclaiming these synchronic words of profound joy and future trepidation?
Can his dear wife bear the weight of these cruel words?
He wonders about the sacrifice his foster son will endure for the sake of all mankind.
His rugged, sun-baked arms, cradle the babe ever closer to his heavy heart, as he speculates, “Will our Love once again carry us through?”
Again the angel of God appears to him in a dream, this time urging him to scoop up the child and his mother and flee with haste to Egypt.
The life of his little boy, Jesus, was being ruthlessly sought by the despicable King Herod!
Hiding out by day and traveling by night, he leads them to the safety of a foreign land, relying solely on the message of an angel.
Along the way he learns of Herod’s rage-induced mass murder of the wee lads of his friends and neighbors and his countrymen.
He and Mary weep with grief for the lives of these holy innocents, butchered for the sake of righteousness.
He is showered by the ridicule and insults of those who deem him crazy for believing in a dream.
Others condemn him for fleeing while their own sons are torn violently from their arms.
O, God, how can he blame them?
While navigating the narrow, rocky trail he wonders what the stones might utter if they could speak.
Gazing up at the star-swelled sky, he remembers another journey and a promise made many years ago; the promise echoing through time, now a rallying cry urging him on and bringing him peace.
He could sense his father Abraham journeying with him in the stillness of the night.
Encouraged by this holy presence he presses on; a refugee carrying the new promise into a foreign land.
Once more an angel asks him to trust.
Obediently, he gathers them to return to their homeland.
This time they are joyful and lighthearted, singing hymns of gratitude by day and resting at night.
As he treads the stony path, he recalls Moses leading his forefathers out of Egypt into the Promised Land.
He carries forth His child in an exodus reminiscent of that one so many years ago, back to their home where he will raise His son, who will grow in age, grace and wisdom.
And who will one day lead others to the new Promised Land.
Darby C. Fitzpatrick (c) 2010
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