New Beginnings

 What is my purpose in life?  In the Baltimore Catechism, it states that "God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him for ever in heaven." (Lesson First)  

So what are the basics of being a practicing Catholic?  There are the "usual" things we think of, such as going to Mass on Sundays, going to Confession during Advent and Lent, and being a good example to others.

But why not strive to do more, and not settle for less?  I would like to share what I have been "up to" lately, as a newlywed.

After getting married to my wonderful, loving husband, I officially moved to a different parish.  It has been like starting from scratch, but in a good way.  My focus has been on entering into this new vocation we had established together, as husband and wife.  

The past couple of weeks have been a time of renewal for me.  I'm still getting to know my parish and the people, but I returned to going to daily Mass as often as possible, and made a point of going to Confession again.  

With no ministry to be a part of yet, I reflected on how I can live out the Faith as a housewife.  I pray with my spouse (yes, my spouse!) every morning, every night, and on my own throughout the day. God willing, I will soon resume my videos on A Catholic Presence's Youtube channel.  I try to set a good example, and love my husband in countless ways.

This has also been a time of renewal in faith, reverence in church, and, as already mentioned, accustoming myself to my vocation.

We shall see where the Lord leads, and I encourage you to join me on this journey of being reignited and in love with Him.

Being Present

    It is so easy to live in the past or future, rather than in the present.  I can say this from my own experience. Without realizing it, I had been thinking, “I’ll be happy when I win that contest.”  “I will do better when I become a nun.” “I’ll be happy when I’m married.”  These are all good things to look forward to; but it is even more important to live in the Present. 

    Even in the past, I would get so caught up in a failed achievement, and dwell on the “failure.”  It has taken me a lot to Learn, Trust, and Move On. 

    I capitalize these key pointers to bring to our attention to the importance of living in the Present, even as awesome as some upcoming, beautiful life events can be.  Why wait until later to be truly happy?

    Something I have also learned is the mindset of living with Gratitude.  It has changed my self-talk to be more positive, and grounds me in the Present.  As a couple of examples, noticing the changing fall colors, or appreciate the warmth of a cup of hot tea on a chilly morning.  It’s the little things that add up to living in the Present! 

    Living in the Present is one of the many things that keep me focused and on fire for God.  Because He is not God of the past or future.   The Father is always Present. Let us be Present to Him too!