"there is no better means of progress in the spiritual life than to be continually beginning afresh, and never to think that we have done enough." St. Francis de Sales

For Families

As we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, let us pray for all families, both healthy and broken.

For those who are struggling to stay together, and those who are separated for whatever reason.

For homeschooled families, for children who are in public school, and those who are bullied.

For fathers and mothers, that they may be examples of love and compassion toward their children.

For families suffering abuse or deprived from their day to day needs.

For homeless families, for supportive families, for Christian families, that they may find strength and have their needs met.

Let us pray for all families throughout the world, through the intercession of the Holy Family.

Lord, hear our pray!  Amen.

One Pattern at a Time

It can be difficult to look at our lives as a whole.  The journeys we travel, the experiences we receive, the memories we cherish.  How did we become who we are, as individuals?  Only God knows.  He is the designer, we have only to follow His lead. 

Adult coloring has become the new “in thing.”  How does this relate to our lives?  While getting into this new past-time, I have found the patterns in adult coloring to be intricate and, oftentimes, overwhelming.  But a friend recently told me something that has really stuck with me: to look at one pattern at a time. 

The same goes with anything in life.  When different ideas are crossed and new paths are taken, life can seem very overwhelming.  But I took this friend’s words to light, and applied them to new ventures in my own life: look at one piece at a time.

Living in the present is key to this concept.  My friend may have no idea how seriously I took her words, but they can be applied to everyday life.  Taking things one day, one hour, one moment at a time, can make life much more bearable.

An open mind is also an allowing of new things to come.  Was it easy to move away from home as a young adult?  Was it hard to pick up paper and pen again?  Not always.  (Writers block is not uncommon.) 

Take one “mouthful” at a time.  One breath, one newly-gained knowledge, and you will be able to grow and develop, becoming a captured piece of the bigger picture.

Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas Season!  God be Ever Praised!

Christmas is fast approaching!  What gift will you give to the Christ Child?  And what are you letting Him give you?

Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us!

Happy 3rd Week of Advent!  Come Lord Jesus!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!