We will be making our way north today, hopefully arriving safely in Abiquiu. There we will be off the grid. I am hoping for a wonderful retreat! I know Ron will be leading hikes and marshmallow roasts. I plan to lead the pack toward getting lots of sleep!
Yesterday was the Feast of the Holy Family. I pray that the graces of that feast day pervade our week. Whether we are from broken or blended families, whether we are poor, whether we are foreigners, like the Holy Family, may we all walk by faith each step of the way and build up our families, which are our most sacred treasures.
May it be a wonderful and blessed week for us all!
Monday, December 28, 2015
Stranded and Loving It
We have been at a Holiday Inn in Nowhere, NM, waiting out Storm Goliath. I have loved it: sleeping 12 hours a night, swimming and using the hot tub, exercising, knitting, and not cooking. :)
My favorite moment was playing our new game, Say Anything. The whole family was playing. It's a bit like Apples to Apples, but you are guessing the family member's taste or preferences about various things. "What is my dream house?" Or "What would I most hate giving a toddler?" and everyone makes a guess. Boy, we laughed and laughed. It was so much fun.
It is quite a reading on your family, to all be stranded together. Do we fight? Mope? Bicker? Seeing how we all just frolicked and played--whether building igloos outside or playing cards, games or telling stories--was a beautiful thing to experience.
My favorite moment was playing our new game, Say Anything. The whole family was playing. It's a bit like Apples to Apples, but you are guessing the family member's taste or preferences about various things. "What is my dream house?" Or "What would I most hate giving a toddler?" and everyone makes a guess. Boy, we laughed and laughed. It was so much fun.
It is quite a reading on your family, to all be stranded together. Do we fight? Mope? Bicker? Seeing how we all just frolicked and played--whether building igloos outside or playing cards, games or telling stories--was a beautiful thing to experience.
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Enjoying the Blizzard!
We headed West, avoiding the tornados that hit Dallas. . . only to find ourselves right in the middle of Winter Storm Goliath!
We are stranded at a hotel in Clovis, New Mexico. We are having a blast, playing in the snow and doing our new hop hop exercise videos (Ron's gag gift for Christmas that has captured our kids' imagination and love!).
I am fully embracing the fun twists and turns of life!
What I love most of all is having a husband who leads the family in joy and adventure. He carries the baton in living each moment to the fullest. It's not what life hands you. It's what you make out of each moment. If you bring humor, joy and fun wherever you go, its hard to be disappointed!
Gotta go. . . we're about to make snowmen! But it is still blizzarding. . . so I think the snow people are going to blow away as fast as we can make them!
Lord, please help us not lose power!
We are stranded at a hotel in Clovis, New Mexico. We are having a blast, playing in the snow and doing our new hop hop exercise videos (Ron's gag gift for Christmas that has captured our kids' imagination and love!).
I am fully embracing the fun twists and turns of life!
What I love most of all is having a husband who leads the family in joy and adventure. He carries the baton in living each moment to the fullest. It's not what life hands you. It's what you make out of each moment. If you bring humor, joy and fun wherever you go, its hard to be disappointed!
Gotta go. . . we're about to make snowmen! But it is still blizzarding. . . so I think the snow people are going to blow away as fast as we can make them!
Lord, please help us not lose power!
What a JOY!!!!
We had such a joyful Christmas: Midnight Mass; Christmas dinner with smoked ribs, Ron Rombs style; lots of pies; an Advent tree that we never got around to re-decorating for Christmas; children squealing over ballet barres, Mission Impossible 5 and a subscription to the soccer channel; and LOTS of coffee for the parents.
What struck us the most, however, is that the 26th of December is the feast of the first Christian martyr, St. Stephen. The older kids and I talked about how Christmas is not about children toys and sugar cookies. Christmas is about a faith that could cost us our lives. It is about our belief that this one man, Jesus of Nazareth, truly is the imprint of the living God, and we should give our lives to him and follow in his footsteps if we want to be truly happy and join the divine family.
May we all seek a life completely yielded to the merciful God revealed in Jesus Christ, and may we find joy in his blessed presence.
What struck us the most, however, is that the 26th of December is the feast of the first Christian martyr, St. Stephen. The older kids and I talked about how Christmas is not about children toys and sugar cookies. Christmas is about a faith that could cost us our lives. It is about our belief that this one man, Jesus of Nazareth, truly is the imprint of the living God, and we should give our lives to him and follow in his footsteps if we want to be truly happy and join the divine family.
May we all seek a life completely yielded to the merciful God revealed in Jesus Christ, and may we find joy in his blessed presence.
Monday, December 21, 2015
The Spirit of Christmas
How do you get into the spirit of Christmas? How do you stay focused on the meaning of Christmas and not let the secular, social aspect of it dominate your experience of the season?
For me this year, the answer is to consider poverty. I have areas of my life that are impoverished: I do not have enough time; I do not have enough energy; I cannot help each of my kids with all the things they want; I cannot get my duties done in a day; I find some areas of our house so ugly and I'd like to re-do them but can't; I find our house itself, well, impoverished.
But then I think of how Christ made his entry into the world. Why did God enter the world in poverty? It is absolutely astounding. God is shouting a message to us. God is dramatically trying to get our attention with this story of Christ being born of poor, dislocated woman, in a cave sheltering animals. Poor shepherds are the witnesses of human history's greatest event. It is so counter-intuitive that the almighty God would forgo luxuries, comfort and wealth which would better befit Him, or so we might think. What is God trying to tell us?
I think God is saying, "Actually, poverty better befits me." He is saying, "My nature is not pompous or arrogant or superior. Poverty leads to humility, and humility leads to love. And I am Love. So, poverty better reflects me than wealth does."
I see in this story a message about embracing poverty. Riches are often obstacles to God. For whatever reason, our fallen natures do not mix well with wealth. We need poverty on various levels to remediate our broken natures and instincts. Poverty is our friend. Poverty may be hard in the moment but it helps us toward heaven.
This Advent, I am seeking to joyfully embrace my poverty. I am seeking Christ's face in each way in which my life comes up short. Maybe God will be born there.
For me this year, the answer is to consider poverty. I have areas of my life that are impoverished: I do not have enough time; I do not have enough energy; I cannot help each of my kids with all the things they want; I cannot get my duties done in a day; I find some areas of our house so ugly and I'd like to re-do them but can't; I find our house itself, well, impoverished.
But then I think of how Christ made his entry into the world. Why did God enter the world in poverty? It is absolutely astounding. God is shouting a message to us. God is dramatically trying to get our attention with this story of Christ being born of poor, dislocated woman, in a cave sheltering animals. Poor shepherds are the witnesses of human history's greatest event. It is so counter-intuitive that the almighty God would forgo luxuries, comfort and wealth which would better befit Him, or so we might think. What is God trying to tell us?
I think God is saying, "Actually, poverty better befits me." He is saying, "My nature is not pompous or arrogant or superior. Poverty leads to humility, and humility leads to love. And I am Love. So, poverty better reflects me than wealth does."
I see in this story a message about embracing poverty. Riches are often obstacles to God. For whatever reason, our fallen natures do not mix well with wealth. We need poverty on various levels to remediate our broken natures and instincts. Poverty is our friend. Poverty may be hard in the moment but it helps us toward heaven.
This Advent, I am seeking to joyfully embrace my poverty. I am seeking Christ's face in each way in which my life comes up short. Maybe God will be born there.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Moms Changing the World
Nine moms were sitting around Winnie's kitchen table praying a rosary. One mother of eight sat nursing her little girl, looking so tired but peaceful. A mother of seven closed her eyes as she prayed, deep in concentration. Her sixth has Downs Syndrome. Yet another mother of eight, one of whom is severely autistic, looked down at her beads as she prayed. Below us were two moms on the floor: one tending to her twins in matching carriers, another keeping her two toddlers occupied. A host of children was swarming around us like honey bees, playing with a toy kitchen and building blocks.
In our rosary, we read a short reflection before each decade. One reads: "Jesus came quietly into the world, in poverty and anonymity. Yet he came with power to change the whole world."
I thought, "That is what these women are doing! They have completely yielded their lives--every moment of every day--to Christ's kind of love. Every moment of their lives is a sacrifice, imitating the cross. All day long they serve the needy, feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, and teach the ignorant. Because of their abundant family sizes, these women have not one minute to themselves. They have so little time, so little comfort, so little rest. They are living out poverty. But it is a poverty of love. It is truly a vocation made in the image of Christ. If he came to change the world, then I believe he is going to do it through these moms."
Choosing a powerful public career may make some difference in the world. And so will being a Catholic mom. It is a vocation deeply embedded in the spirit of the gospel. Despite its poverty and anonymity--or because of its poverty and anonymity--it is a calling that shares the love and the power of Christ.
In our rosary, we read a short reflection before each decade. One reads: "Jesus came quietly into the world, in poverty and anonymity. Yet he came with power to change the whole world."
I thought, "That is what these women are doing! They have completely yielded their lives--every moment of every day--to Christ's kind of love. Every moment of their lives is a sacrifice, imitating the cross. All day long they serve the needy, feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, and teach the ignorant. Because of their abundant family sizes, these women have not one minute to themselves. They have so little time, so little comfort, so little rest. They are living out poverty. But it is a poverty of love. It is truly a vocation made in the image of Christ. If he came to change the world, then I believe he is going to do it through these moms."
Choosing a powerful public career may make some difference in the world. And so will being a Catholic mom. It is a vocation deeply embedded in the spirit of the gospel. Despite its poverty and anonymity--or because of its poverty and anonymity--it is a calling that shares the love and the power of Christ.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum
Clare has amazing spunk and is determined to play basketball competitively. She has just played her first ever basketball game! She was really in the action! Look at her steal the ball!
Look at her be ready to receive the ball!
We got home and ordered pics like these from her first game, to make a photo book of her. She is elated.
It is interesting to have a child who marches to the beat of her own drum. I have to watch myself and not pressure her to be like the other girls. I dread the thought of her not fitting in or feeling left out. But I bite my tongue because she needs to be herself. The girls in her class talk a lot about the crushes they have on boys. Once they teased her about liking someone. She quipped back: "I'm not allowed to date for 8 more years. Talking about crushes is going to get REALLY BORING. Can we please talk about something else?"
She rocks!!!
Look at her be ready to receive the ball!
We got home and ordered pics like these from her first game, to make a photo book of her. She is elated.
It is interesting to have a child who marches to the beat of her own drum. I have to watch myself and not pressure her to be like the other girls. I dread the thought of her not fitting in or feeling left out. But I bite my tongue because she needs to be herself. The girls in her class talk a lot about the crushes they have on boys. Once they teased her about liking someone. She quipped back: "I'm not allowed to date for 8 more years. Talking about crushes is going to get REALLY BORING. Can we please talk about something else?"
She rocks!!!
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Third Sunday of Advent: Gaudete Sunday!
It is the the third Sunday of Advent, called "Gaudete" Sunday. "Gaudete" means "Rejoice!"
All four readings are unspeakably wonderful! Here are some snippets:
"Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Be glad and exult with all your heart!" (Zephaniah 3:14)
"God is indeed my savior; I am confident and unafraid," (Isaiah 12)
"Have no anxiety at all, but . . . make your requests known to God," (Philippians 4:4)
"He [Jesus] will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire," (Luke 3:10)
So many occasions to rise above our circumstances and rejoice in God!
All four readings are unspeakably wonderful! Here are some snippets:
"Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Be glad and exult with all your heart!" (Zephaniah 3:14)
"God is indeed my savior; I am confident and unafraid," (Isaiah 12)
"Have no anxiety at all, but . . . make your requests known to God," (Philippians 4:4)
"He [Jesus] will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire," (Luke 3:10)
So many occasions to rise above our circumstances and rejoice in God!
Saturday, December 12, 2015
A Mother to the Rescue!
It was such a joy to visit with Fr. Thomas Esposito last night at the Theology Department Christmas party! He asked me what I am teaching next semester, and I said, "Epistemology." He said, "Wow, how did that happen?" I explained that my department had forgotten to schedule an epistemology class, but the seminarians need it to graduate. None of the philosophy faculty wanted to teach it because they had already chosen their courses for next semester. So two deans decided, "Let's ask Kathryn Rombs."
Fr. Thomas responded: "Of course they did! See, a mother to the rescue!"
Here is the link to Fr. Thomas' wonderful new book, which is a compilation of his fictional letters to historical figures such as Audrey Hepburn and Albert Einstein:
Fr. Thomas responded: "Of course they did! See, a mother to the rescue!"
Here is the link to Fr. Thomas' wonderful new book, which is a compilation of his fictional letters to historical figures such as Audrey Hepburn and Albert Einstein:
He creatively gives thoughtful, Catholic messages to them, helping the reader build up and flesh out his or her Catholic worldview, all in an entertaining read. A good gift for friends and family members!
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Happy Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe! Our Lady is arguably responsible for the end of the Aztec practice of human sacrifice in the 16th century and for the conversion of the vast majority of Aztecs to the Catholic faith. Mexico is predominantly Catholic today because of Our Lady. Our Lady's sash is black, a symbol of being with child. She is a gentle, pregnant mother who virtually took over Mexico and changed its course forever. Go, Our Lady of Guadalupe! Be with us, pray for us, and help all mothers to gently change the world!
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Spiritual Goal of the Year
Each year I pick one spiritual goal to pray for and work on. I begin each new Advent, the beginning of the liturgical year, with this new focus.
Last year, my goal was joy. I am far from finished in my cultivation of this beautiful gift from God. But it was so funny--this week I was passing out the final exam for my students. One of them was staring at me, sort of quizzically. I asked him what was wrong. He replied, "Oh nothing. You're just so. . . so. . . joyful!" I laughed and thought, "What a gift from the Holy Spirit, here as my year has just finished, to have confirmation of some progress on that front!"
This year, my goal is faith. Strange--the year of faith declared by Pope Benedict a few years ago came and went, and I did not plumb the depths of faith as I felt I should. I did try--but somehow came up short.
But during my year of joy, I realized: "Joy comes from FAITH!" It definitely does not come from circumstances, which are often so hard. It does not come from our natures, which are often driven by fight or flight instincts, keeping us from joy. But FAITH: that is where joy comes from.
So I resolved that this year, I should dedicate my spiritual life to the pursuit of faith. Lord, grant me a huge increase in faith!
Last year, my goal was joy. I am far from finished in my cultivation of this beautiful gift from God. But it was so funny--this week I was passing out the final exam for my students. One of them was staring at me, sort of quizzically. I asked him what was wrong. He replied, "Oh nothing. You're just so. . . so. . . joyful!" I laughed and thought, "What a gift from the Holy Spirit, here as my year has just finished, to have confirmation of some progress on that front!"
This year, my goal is faith. Strange--the year of faith declared by Pope Benedict a few years ago came and went, and I did not plumb the depths of faith as I felt I should. I did try--but somehow came up short.
But during my year of joy, I realized: "Joy comes from FAITH!" It definitely does not come from circumstances, which are often so hard. It does not come from our natures, which are often driven by fight or flight instincts, keeping us from joy. But FAITH: that is where joy comes from.
So I resolved that this year, I should dedicate my spiritual life to the pursuit of faith. Lord, grant me a huge increase in faith!
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Trust--In Whom Do We Entrust Ourselves?
Every one of us puts our trust in someone or something. Some people, of course, place their ultimate trust in God.
But those who do not still place their trust somewhere. Maybe they place their trust in themselves: "I am the king of my universe--I will promote my own good." Others place their trust in money or possessions. It is not "I am worth it all," but rather, "I may be a scoundrel, but I want as much pleasure and as much comfort as possible." These are different: one person idolizes himself; another idolizes possessions.
No one can escape this act of entrusting. We all do it, even if it is inadvertent or done by default.
It's interesting to me that, even if we choose to idolize ourselves, that too is a choice.
The fact that we all entrust ourselves to someone or something is an indication that we are creatures made to be in relationship. We are made, not to be an island, but to be a community. We are more like puzzle pieces, incomplete without someone or something in whom to attach ourselves. We are less like a complete, self-contained thing.
This Advent, it is my hope to meditate upon my own creatureliness, my own dependence, my need to attach myself to someone else. It is my desire to examine the choice I have made, which is the choice for God. Am I deeply attached? Or am I in need of renewed commitment and devotion? What areas of my life have I reclaimed for myself? Where can I improve in entrusting myself to the Creator and Redeemer, the Savior of the world?
But those who do not still place their trust somewhere. Maybe they place their trust in themselves: "I am the king of my universe--I will promote my own good." Others place their trust in money or possessions. It is not "I am worth it all," but rather, "I may be a scoundrel, but I want as much pleasure and as much comfort as possible." These are different: one person idolizes himself; another idolizes possessions.
No one can escape this act of entrusting. We all do it, even if it is inadvertent or done by default.
It's interesting to me that, even if we choose to idolize ourselves, that too is a choice.
The fact that we all entrust ourselves to someone or something is an indication that we are creatures made to be in relationship. We are made, not to be an island, but to be a community. We are more like puzzle pieces, incomplete without someone or something in whom to attach ourselves. We are less like a complete, self-contained thing.
This Advent, it is my hope to meditate upon my own creatureliness, my own dependence, my need to attach myself to someone else. It is my desire to examine the choice I have made, which is the choice for God. Am I deeply attached? Or am I in need of renewed commitment and devotion? What areas of my life have I reclaimed for myself? Where can I improve in entrusting myself to the Creator and Redeemer, the Savior of the world?
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Papa Ronnie
Happy Birthday, Papa Ronnie!
Our family LOVES Papa Ronnie. He is a true blessing to each one of us.
The day I met him he was on his Texas farm, wearing his cowboy hat, Wranglers and boots. He was so polite, so quick to get me everything I might want, he was a true gentleman.
But as soon as Ron and I had children, he took it to a new level. He played "Hide and Seek" with them around his house. He would crawl under beds, hide in closets, always helping the littlest one win the game. He was a child himself, and I've never seen someone have more fun with children.
Grandparents can be the safest, most delightful people in a child's life. That is who he is to my kids--my kids have several wonderful grandparents! Papa Ronnie brings out joy, laughter and playfulness in my kids. They associate him with some of the funnest times they have ever had--making milkshakes, riding on his back like a horse, playing pranks, watching silly movies, driving a car for the first time on back roads in the country. He is a true gift. I am so glad that they have him in their lives.
Congratulations on your new marriage! We are so excited about Jane!
Our family LOVES Papa Ronnie. He is a true blessing to each one of us.
The day I met him he was on his Texas farm, wearing his cowboy hat, Wranglers and boots. He was so polite, so quick to get me everything I might want, he was a true gentleman.
But as soon as Ron and I had children, he took it to a new level. He played "Hide and Seek" with them around his house. He would crawl under beds, hide in closets, always helping the littlest one win the game. He was a child himself, and I've never seen someone have more fun with children.
Grandparents can be the safest, most delightful people in a child's life. That is who he is to my kids--my kids have several wonderful grandparents! Papa Ronnie brings out joy, laughter and playfulness in my kids. They associate him with some of the funnest times they have ever had--making milkshakes, riding on his back like a horse, playing pranks, watching silly movies, driving a car for the first time on back roads in the country. He is a true gift. I am so glad that they have him in their lives.
Congratulations on your new marriage! We are so excited about Jane!
My Teenagers
Now having two teenagers, our family life is adjusting. All those years homeschooling is really paying off. These two teens are so bonded to me and everyone in the family.
One of the main ways we all relate is through humor. They don't really want to get my advise about everything. They don't want to get my approval for everything. The dynamics are changing in those ways.
But they do want to laugh. I have "up'd my game" on humor. I find lots of things to quip about. I was driving these two home from the orthodontist yesterday. I made a joke. They joked back. We were all laughing hysterically as we got out of the car and stumbled into the house.
Ron asked: "What is so funny? Why is everyone so HAPPY?"
It was somewhat rhetorical. We told him the stupid sentence that had gotten us started. But the real point is: we are happy together.
This is priceless to me.
One of the main ways we all relate is through humor. They don't really want to get my advise about everything. They don't want to get my approval for everything. The dynamics are changing in those ways.
But they do want to laugh. I have "up'd my game" on humor. I find lots of things to quip about. I was driving these two home from the orthodontist yesterday. I made a joke. They joked back. We were all laughing hysterically as we got out of the car and stumbled into the house.
Ron asked: "What is so funny? Why is everyone so HAPPY?"
It was somewhat rhetorical. We told him the stupid sentence that had gotten us started. But the real point is: we are happy together.
This is priceless to me.
Monday, November 30, 2015
Sebastian
Sebastian is such a huge part of my day, year, and life! He is such a joy. He loves soccer balls, and everything he sees looks like a ball to him. "Ball!" is his first and favorite word. This little athlete darts around all day long, chasing real and make-shift balls (soda cans, dolls, pencil cases. . . anything he can kick). Everyone once in a while, though, we catch up with him and tickle him!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
A Nutcracker to Remember
What a joy! Annie, Leigh and Mary did such good job! Our family was so wonderful to be there!
Saturday, November 28, 2015
High Point--Low Point
My high point today was my sweet five year old Annie waving at me from the stage of the Nutcracker. She is a "party girl" in the opening party scene. She was all dressed up in a formal, velvet dress, and wore a wig of long, brown curls. She was adorable. She spotted me in the audience, as I was in the fifth row. She waved! That warmed my heart.
My low point was that I forgot to get her when she was done. I was supposed to go get her from backstage and have her sit with me for the remainder of the show, once she was done being an "angel" in the second act. I forgot! Where is my head? I am so out of it. Sweet thing. I felt so bad!
My low point was that I forgot to get her when she was done. I was supposed to go get her from backstage and have her sit with me for the remainder of the show, once she was done being an "angel" in the second act. I forgot! Where is my head? I am so out of it. Sweet thing. I felt so bad!
Friday, November 27, 2015
Wonderful Granny!
She and Sebastian have made good friends! Lucky Sebastian!!
Ron said that yesterday at Mom's Thanksgiving time, he peered around the corner of the living room, and caught Granny tickling and hugging Sebastian, making him laugh. He said it was delightful to see her enjoying him so much.
What a blessing!
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Thanksgiving
"Be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:15-17)
God, send your Spirit to give us holy gratitude. Fill us with the word of Christ, so that we rejoice, and do all things today with thanksgiving that pleases you. Amen
God, send your Spirit to give us holy gratitude. Fill us with the word of Christ, so that we rejoice, and do all things today with thanksgiving that pleases you. Amen
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
New House Rules
Whenever I get unduly frustrated with the house or the kids' behavior, I know it is time for new house rules! Then, instead of being angry, I can smile and say, "You broke the house rule! One dollar please!"
Today, we cleaned the house. Oh, it was so frustrating. The crayons, hairbands, socks and books that were out of place--how is it my job to put all these things in their right places?
So I added on to our list of house rules, and now the list looks like this:
1. Obey Mom and Dad. "Okay, Mom/Dad!"
2. Sharing: When you want something, "In how many minutes may I have a turn?" The person must say in five minutes or less. Then they must share.
3. Conflicts: When you are upset with someone, "May we please discuss it?" They must stop what they are doing and discuss until resolved.
4. Sit still in church with hands in laps: no wiggling, playing, twisting, turning, whispering or fidgeting.
5. Speak to adults, looking them in the eye and smiling.
10. Put things back in the right places.
11. Anything that Mom or Dad collects goes in a large bag. You have to pay $1 to get it back.
12. Leaving out snacks, drinks or meal food/dishes costs you $1.
13. Coats, fleeces, hats and gloves out cost you $1.
14. Empty cat food cans cost you $1.
15. No whining, raising your voice, or yelling. If you yell at a family member, you owe them $5 (parents included--if a parent yells, the child may charge them $5).
16. No calling someone "a bad kid" or "a trouble-maker" or any global negative description. That will cost you $20. We are all trying to become saints. All conversation should reflect those efforts.
Today, we cleaned the house. Oh, it was so frustrating. The crayons, hairbands, socks and books that were out of place--how is it my job to put all these things in their right places?
So I added on to our list of house rules, and now the list looks like this:
1. Obey Mom and Dad. "Okay, Mom/Dad!"
2. Sharing: When you want something, "In how many minutes may I have a turn?" The person must say in five minutes or less. Then they must share.
3. Conflicts: When you are upset with someone, "May we please discuss it?" They must stop what they are doing and discuss until resolved.
4. Sit still in church with hands in laps: no wiggling, playing, twisting, turning, whispering or fidgeting.
5. Speak to adults, looking them in the eye and smiling.
10. Put things back in the right places.
11. Anything that Mom or Dad collects goes in a large bag. You have to pay $1 to get it back.
12. Leaving out snacks, drinks or meal food/dishes costs you $1.
13. Coats, fleeces, hats and gloves out cost you $1.
14. Empty cat food cans cost you $1.
15. No whining, raising your voice, or yelling. If you yell at a family member, you owe them $5 (parents included--if a parent yells, the child may charge them $5).
16. No calling someone "a bad kid" or "a trouble-maker" or any global negative description. That will cost you $20. We are all trying to become saints. All conversation should reflect those efforts.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Christ the King: A Feast for Mothers
Today is the feast of Christ the King. I know of few feast days more suited to Catholic mothers. The Gospel reading today concerns Pilate questioning Jesus: "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus responds later in their discourse: "My kingdom does not belong to this world" (John 18:33 ff.).
Christ is the King. But not of this world. Catholic mothers, too, are royalty, but in the sense of Christ's royalty. By virtue of our baptism, we share in the royalty of Christ. He is the King, and as His daughters, we share in his kingship, that is, receiving our queenship.
Yet just as Christ's kingdom was not of this world, neither is ours. Christ chose against earthly power. In motherhood, we forgo earthly power. Christ chose against political, social and economic power. So too, insofar as we participate in our office as mothers, to that extent we are forgoing our public offices in the political, social and economic spheres. There is so much we could do, so many gifts we have to bring to the world. Yet sometimes we set the development of those gifts aside to be mothers, at least for the time being.
Sometimes those are true losses. Sometimes we really suffer for having set aside that development. I was speaking with one friend today who shared how deeply she suffers for having set aside so much of her personal development over the past 20 years as she has raised her eight children.
Yet motherhood is a sharing in Christ's kingship. We are not developing our talents for this world as we might otherwise, if we were not mothers. But we are doing something incredibly powerful. When we are joined with Christ, we intercede with him--that is mighty powerful indeed. When we are unified with Christ, we are shining the light of God in a dark world--what could be more important? When we love Christ, we manifest divine love in our homes, in our communities, in our parishes, in our schools, in our relationships. We transform the world with God's love. There is no political, social or economic need greater than the need the people of the earth have for God's love. The best policies, laws and morays are worthless without the love of God.
We may not receive earthly titles or honors. We may not receive praise. We may never be acknowledged by other people for the important work we are doing. But insofar as we are one with Christ, who is the King, we share in his royal office. Even when we ache, as my friend does, for how little we have developed our own talents, and even if we would do it differently to some extent if we could, God can use what we have given Him. He can use our offering in mighty ways. We will not know until heaven how He has used our sacrifices. But just as the death on a cross of one seemingly insignificant man had a radical, infinite power, so too can our small, seemingly insignificant deaths to self have a lasting and eternal weight.
Christ is the King. But not of this world. Catholic mothers, too, are royalty, but in the sense of Christ's royalty. By virtue of our baptism, we share in the royalty of Christ. He is the King, and as His daughters, we share in his kingship, that is, receiving our queenship.
Yet just as Christ's kingdom was not of this world, neither is ours. Christ chose against earthly power. In motherhood, we forgo earthly power. Christ chose against political, social and economic power. So too, insofar as we participate in our office as mothers, to that extent we are forgoing our public offices in the political, social and economic spheres. There is so much we could do, so many gifts we have to bring to the world. Yet sometimes we set the development of those gifts aside to be mothers, at least for the time being.
Sometimes those are true losses. Sometimes we really suffer for having set aside that development. I was speaking with one friend today who shared how deeply she suffers for having set aside so much of her personal development over the past 20 years as she has raised her eight children.
Yet motherhood is a sharing in Christ's kingship. We are not developing our talents for this world as we might otherwise, if we were not mothers. But we are doing something incredibly powerful. When we are joined with Christ, we intercede with him--that is mighty powerful indeed. When we are unified with Christ, we are shining the light of God in a dark world--what could be more important? When we love Christ, we manifest divine love in our homes, in our communities, in our parishes, in our schools, in our relationships. We transform the world with God's love. There is no political, social or economic need greater than the need the people of the earth have for God's love. The best policies, laws and morays are worthless without the love of God.
We may not receive earthly titles or honors. We may not receive praise. We may never be acknowledged by other people for the important work we are doing. But insofar as we are one with Christ, who is the King, we share in his royal office. Even when we ache, as my friend does, for how little we have developed our own talents, and even if we would do it differently to some extent if we could, God can use what we have given Him. He can use our offering in mighty ways. We will not know until heaven how He has used our sacrifices. But just as the death on a cross of one seemingly insignificant man had a radical, infinite power, so too can our small, seemingly insignificant deaths to self have a lasting and eternal weight.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Ron: Preparing for a Sabbatical
I spent hours talking with Ron after his evening class yesterday. We talked about his teaching, his publications, his upcoming sabbatical. First, I was astonished at how hard it is to teach graduate level courses for the first time: one night a week, for three hours, he teaches a text that, until recently, he has never even read before. He is teaching it to well-educated graduate students. That is so much harder than teaching a core class: using texts you are already familiar with, to students who are new to the field. I think MY job is hard! His is exponentially harder.
Second, I marveled as he catalogued all the new preps he has taught over these past 13 years of teaching. He taught all new preps at the first school he worked for; then a whole different set of new preps for the second school he worked for. Then 80% new preps at UD, where he has been for 8 years. He has taught many graduate and upper level courses, on everything from Greek Patristics (teaching Greek on a graduate level!) to the theology of contemporary art to systematics to Scripture studies. Each time, he has to find all the scholarship he will rely on and put the whole package together from scratch.
The amount of material he has covered is as vast as it is rich. I imagine his brain, and all the neural pathways he has created, prepping these courses, even though he does not repeat many of them. The wealth of knowledge he has is immense! Over three thousand hours of classroom time, presenting some of the finest, most exciting material for one interested in Christianity.
I came away from that conversation in a stupor. I am in awe of the base of knowledge that he has formed. From that base, I am curious what God will generate.
This sabbatical is a year of rest. He has been in fifth gear for 13 years. He needs to unwind and have holy leisure.
In that time of rest, I believe that God will give Ron creativity. I pray that God will use this vast treasure house of wisdom Ron has acquired, and give Ron an insight or inspiration. I pray that God will give Ron fruitfulness, that Ron will produce the highest quality writing or project that Ron can make.
Ron's basic hermeneutic is so godly. His approach to the study of God (that is what "theology" means) is admirable: humble yet confident, gentle yet ambitious, compassionate yet holding to the rule of faith. I have never really seen anything like it. Somehow, grace, the formation from his educators and pastors, and his personality have come together to concoct a rich and precious result. I trust that God has a wonderful plan for Ron's contribution to the Body of Christ and I stand in eager anticipation to watch it unfold.
Second, I marveled as he catalogued all the new preps he has taught over these past 13 years of teaching. He taught all new preps at the first school he worked for; then a whole different set of new preps for the second school he worked for. Then 80% new preps at UD, where he has been for 8 years. He has taught many graduate and upper level courses, on everything from Greek Patristics (teaching Greek on a graduate level!) to the theology of contemporary art to systematics to Scripture studies. Each time, he has to find all the scholarship he will rely on and put the whole package together from scratch.
The amount of material he has covered is as vast as it is rich. I imagine his brain, and all the neural pathways he has created, prepping these courses, even though he does not repeat many of them. The wealth of knowledge he has is immense! Over three thousand hours of classroom time, presenting some of the finest, most exciting material for one interested in Christianity.
I came away from that conversation in a stupor. I am in awe of the base of knowledge that he has formed. From that base, I am curious what God will generate.
This sabbatical is a year of rest. He has been in fifth gear for 13 years. He needs to unwind and have holy leisure.
In that time of rest, I believe that God will give Ron creativity. I pray that God will use this vast treasure house of wisdom Ron has acquired, and give Ron an insight or inspiration. I pray that God will give Ron fruitfulness, that Ron will produce the highest quality writing or project that Ron can make.
Ron's basic hermeneutic is so godly. His approach to the study of God (that is what "theology" means) is admirable: humble yet confident, gentle yet ambitious, compassionate yet holding to the rule of faith. I have never really seen anything like it. Somehow, grace, the formation from his educators and pastors, and his personality have come together to concoct a rich and precious result. I trust that God has a wonderful plan for Ron's contribution to the Body of Christ and I stand in eager anticipation to watch it unfold.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
A student said to me. . .
"You have single-handedly restored my faith in the liberal arts. After years of secular education in which learning was aimed at nothing at all other than some specialized bit of knowledge that seemed to have no real point, I have come to believe that knowledge is real and important and grounded in the Christian faith. Thank you--your class is my favorite class I have ever taken."
What a compliment!
What a compliment!
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Melia visits!!!
It has been such delight having a visit with my sister Melia. Living in Greece, then in England, and now in LA--she is now on the same continent as we are! What a gorgeous human being, inside and out. What character, what virtue, what joy.
Saturday, November 14, 2015
"Perfect"
My fractured foot, the bruises, the resulting back pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, fever. . . I am astounded at how I suddenly find myself in a health crisis. I am equally shocked that each day is as bad as the previous one. It is not getting better day by day, as I expected it might. It is as bad as the first day. Last night I fell apart crying.
I have been offering up these pains for my intentions, and striving to be grateful for the pain, as it may be a catalyst for these prayers being answered. I have hobbled around the house and hobbled around town, trying to make the minimal requirements of teaching my class, picking up my kids on time, and not forgetting the most basic duties of each day.
Yesterday morning I had a lovely time to pray. The house was completely quiet--so rare these days. I sat in silence. I went inward, as spiritual guides such as Augustine and Teresa of Avila advise us to do. They say that God is found inward and then upward. Given how hectic my daily life is, and how I hard it has been to just meet my children's and my survival needs, it felt strange and almost unfamiliar to go inward. But in the quiet, I gladly turned in that direction.
Nothing really happened. It was just peaceful. But I heard no voice, saw no vision. I just trusted, praised, and rested in Him.
Later, I prayed, offering up my foot pain. I thank God, as usual. But when I did, I just burst out with a spontaneous prayer: "Perfect!" I kept saying, "Perfect!" Meaning: "This pain is perfect. This break is perfect. This falling apart is perfect. It is perfect because it is just what you allowed, no more and no less. It is perfect because it is debilitating, but not for life. It is limiting, but not in every way. And it is perfect to bring about the intentions that you have given me. I get to be united to Christ in his physical pain on the cross. That is heaven--to be with Jesus. That is powerful--to intercede with him for his creation, for his people, the ones he has put in my life. So yes: this problem is perfect."
I see the word "perfect" as I look at my foot. It is my day's mantra. Perfect. It is my "Yes" to God. It is my Fiat. It is the grace God is giving me to day to have some measure of what Augustine and so many others prompt us to have: "Perfect" resignation.
I have been offering up these pains for my intentions, and striving to be grateful for the pain, as it may be a catalyst for these prayers being answered. I have hobbled around the house and hobbled around town, trying to make the minimal requirements of teaching my class, picking up my kids on time, and not forgetting the most basic duties of each day.
Yesterday morning I had a lovely time to pray. The house was completely quiet--so rare these days. I sat in silence. I went inward, as spiritual guides such as Augustine and Teresa of Avila advise us to do. They say that God is found inward and then upward. Given how hectic my daily life is, and how I hard it has been to just meet my children's and my survival needs, it felt strange and almost unfamiliar to go inward. But in the quiet, I gladly turned in that direction.
Nothing really happened. It was just peaceful. But I heard no voice, saw no vision. I just trusted, praised, and rested in Him.
Later, I prayed, offering up my foot pain. I thank God, as usual. But when I did, I just burst out with a spontaneous prayer: "Perfect!" I kept saying, "Perfect!" Meaning: "This pain is perfect. This break is perfect. This falling apart is perfect. It is perfect because it is just what you allowed, no more and no less. It is perfect because it is debilitating, but not for life. It is limiting, but not in every way. And it is perfect to bring about the intentions that you have given me. I get to be united to Christ in his physical pain on the cross. That is heaven--to be with Jesus. That is powerful--to intercede with him for his creation, for his people, the ones he has put in my life. So yes: this problem is perfect."
I see the word "perfect" as I look at my foot. It is my day's mantra. Perfect. It is my "Yes" to God. It is my Fiat. It is the grace God is giving me to day to have some measure of what Augustine and so many others prompt us to have: "Perfect" resignation.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
Great Quote
"What if when you woke up this morning, all you had is what you were grateful for yesterday?"
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Grateful
This Thursday, I had the most excruciating pain I have ever felt--I broke a bone. It was worse than childbirth. Then, the next day, I threw my back out. The following day I came down with a fever. It is so strange when your health and body completely fall apart. I transition from being a healthy, ambitious adult to a pitiful patient. I couldn't help but think of Job--and then I suddenly prayed that the misfortune would stop with the fever and not carry on like Job's did.
But what this pain has drawn out of me (in addition to lots of petitions, offering the suffering up for those in need) is gratitude. I am so, so grateful for my loyal, cheerful husband who took two days off of work, carting me around to different doctors and then doing the parental duties, his and mine both. I am grateful for my Mom who empathizes and cares deeply for me in my pain. I am grateful for our healthcare, which is better than it is in most countries. I am grateful for our children, who are so tender and kind, concerned for my health. I am grateful for my friends who have been communicating with me non-stop, praying me through.
The pain is subsiding, and surely I am through the worst of it. Once the physical ailments are gone, all that will remain is a deeper gratitude for my life.
But what this pain has drawn out of me (in addition to lots of petitions, offering the suffering up for those in need) is gratitude. I am so, so grateful for my loyal, cheerful husband who took two days off of work, carting me around to different doctors and then doing the parental duties, his and mine both. I am grateful for my Mom who empathizes and cares deeply for me in my pain. I am grateful for our healthcare, which is better than it is in most countries. I am grateful for our children, who are so tender and kind, concerned for my health. I am grateful for my friends who have been communicating with me non-stop, praying me through.
The pain is subsiding, and surely I am through the worst of it. Once the physical ailments are gone, all that will remain is a deeper gratitude for my life.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Patience is a virtue!
Patience is truly the key to motherhood!
Starting a new school has taken adjustment, to say the least. But suddenly, the kids are happy, their homework is not the huge labor it used to be, they are getting enough sleep, they have made friends. Patience through that first quarter was so important!
Having a one year old who screams, arches his back, throws tantrums, and simply LOVES to disobey just for fun takes a lot of patience! But I keep remembering. . . he will be up and grown before I can blink twice.
Where would I be without patience? Lord, give me patience in abundance! It comes from God--we do not have it on our own. God created motherhood, and He made it so that we would need Him.
Starting a new school has taken adjustment, to say the least. But suddenly, the kids are happy, their homework is not the huge labor it used to be, they are getting enough sleep, they have made friends. Patience through that first quarter was so important!
Having a one year old who screams, arches his back, throws tantrums, and simply LOVES to disobey just for fun takes a lot of patience! But I keep remembering. . . he will be up and grown before I can blink twice.
Where would I be without patience? Lord, give me patience in abundance! It comes from God--we do not have it on our own. God created motherhood, and He made it so that we would need Him.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Saints. . . such an important part of faith
It is so important to seek the friendship of the saints. That is because they are part of the great resource that God has given us.
If there were a fantastic church, with a handful of amazing ministers, and hundreds of members of the church that were on fire in their faith, blazing new trails as to how to be authentic, lively, influential Christians in the midst of a dark and hungry world, wouldn't you want to join that church? You would not say, "Jesus is enough. I don't need to be around other Christians. My prayer life is sufficient." No! You would want to be a part of that vibrant community!
Jesus IS enough in so many ways--He is enough as the satisfaction of our hearts' desires, as the meeter of our needs, as our All in All in life. He is enough to make us happy. He is enough to save us. He is enough for eternal life.
No saint does these things. No saint is our god, the meeter of the needs of our heart, our savior, our giver of eternal life. We do not worship saints. We do not let them be our gods--that would be terrible heresy.
But saints draw us closer to Jesus. Saints are one of the ways we find Jesus, learn about Jesus, and one of the ways that Jesus comes to us, meets our needs, helps us find happiness.
We are not made to be alone with Jesus. We are made to be part of the City of God. We are meant to be part of the Body of Christ. We should be in as close a relationship as possible with the other parts of that Divine Body. We should build communities of faith here on earth. We are also free to learn about and develop friendships with saints from previous ages.
I love Mary. She is my favorite saint. She loves Jesus more than anyone possibly could--nothing on earth rivals a mother's love. I like being in the presence of one who loves Him so passionately and so completely. She rubs off on me, and helps fan the flames of my Christian love.
If there were a fantastic church, with a handful of amazing ministers, and hundreds of members of the church that were on fire in their faith, blazing new trails as to how to be authentic, lively, influential Christians in the midst of a dark and hungry world, wouldn't you want to join that church? You would not say, "Jesus is enough. I don't need to be around other Christians. My prayer life is sufficient." No! You would want to be a part of that vibrant community!
Jesus IS enough in so many ways--He is enough as the satisfaction of our hearts' desires, as the meeter of our needs, as our All in All in life. He is enough to make us happy. He is enough to save us. He is enough for eternal life.
No saint does these things. No saint is our god, the meeter of the needs of our heart, our savior, our giver of eternal life. We do not worship saints. We do not let them be our gods--that would be terrible heresy.
But saints draw us closer to Jesus. Saints are one of the ways we find Jesus, learn about Jesus, and one of the ways that Jesus comes to us, meets our needs, helps us find happiness.
We are not made to be alone with Jesus. We are made to be part of the City of God. We are meant to be part of the Body of Christ. We should be in as close a relationship as possible with the other parts of that Divine Body. We should build communities of faith here on earth. We are also free to learn about and develop friendships with saints from previous ages.
I love Mary. She is my favorite saint. She loves Jesus more than anyone possibly could--nothing on earth rivals a mother's love. I like being in the presence of one who loves Him so passionately and so completely. She rubs off on me, and helps fan the flames of my Christian love.
Saturday, October 31, 2015
All Saints Day Party--So Many Saints!
St. Bernadette
Monday, October 26, 2015
New Way to Love
Ron and I facilitated a New Way to Love retreat at the University of Dallas this weekend for about a dozen couples. It was such a great experience! The couples seemed to be totally transformed. What a blessing the program is. We are grateful to be a part of it!
Thursday, October 22, 2015
The Sickies!
I've been home with Sebastian and Annie all week, both of whom have been sick. Then Clare and Ron got it! Poor guys! But fun to be together. Clare and I wrote in her prayer journal today, getting good Bible verses and prayers and things for which to be grateful. It was lovely.
Junior Cheerleaders
Clare and Leigh had such fun being part of the junior cheerleading squad at Faustina!
When the announcer said each girl's name in the microphone, the crowd cheered extra loud for Clare--yay!!
When the announcer said each girl's name in the microphone, the crowd cheered extra loud for Clare--yay!!
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Social Life for Kids Can be Hard!
Oh I am heartbroken.
Mary was completely left out of her ballet class, again. Two and a half hours, and no one included her. She said it gave her a lot of time to pray. She was also heaving sobs when she got home from school today--a group project gone awry, a volleyball game with lots of fouls, and just a miserable day.
Clare has been upset--inconsolable-- for two days. The girls in her class are horrid. Six out of eight girls have no friends. Six lone rangers. None of them congeal. There is no group identity, no class spirit. They are all loners. Imagine being new there, and trying to fit in! There is no where to fit in, because they have no friendship!
Jake then started chiming in about how hard last year was. . . I had forgotten how much he was left out, and how hard he struggled. But he hung in there. This year, he just started throwing parties. They love it. It has caught on, and somehow a social group has formed. But golly, a year with nothing!
School is hard. People are hard. God help us all!
Mary was completely left out of her ballet class, again. Two and a half hours, and no one included her. She said it gave her a lot of time to pray. She was also heaving sobs when she got home from school today--a group project gone awry, a volleyball game with lots of fouls, and just a miserable day.
Clare has been upset--inconsolable-- for two days. The girls in her class are horrid. Six out of eight girls have no friends. Six lone rangers. None of them congeal. There is no group identity, no class spirit. They are all loners. Imagine being new there, and trying to fit in! There is no where to fit in, because they have no friendship!
Jake then started chiming in about how hard last year was. . . I had forgotten how much he was left out, and how hard he struggled. But he hung in there. This year, he just started throwing parties. They love it. It has caught on, and somehow a social group has formed. But golly, a year with nothing!
School is hard. People are hard. God help us all!
Monday, October 19, 2015
Uncle David
Here are my favorite things about Uncle David:
1) His love for algorithms
2) His art
3) His Christian conversion (or reversion, as it were)
4) His thoughtfulness to my Mom (his ex-sister-in-law??) which is unadulterated and unsurpassed
5) His bizarre ability to turn every single thing into a joke--no matter how dark. He is better than Saturday Night Live.
1) His love for algorithms
2) His art
3) His Christian conversion (or reversion, as it were)
4) His thoughtfulness to my Mom (his ex-sister-in-law??) which is unadulterated and unsurpassed
5) His bizarre ability to turn every single thing into a joke--no matter how dark. He is better than Saturday Night Live.
Skipping
Leigh is eight, and was skipping through the store this weekend. As her hair bounced and her dress flounced, I thought, "Soon she will stop skipping. And that day I will cry. She is so precious. She is so youthful."
She is younger than her age--she plays with Annie regularly. She acts like a five year old a lot of the time! Oh, I adore her. I don't want her to grow up!
She is younger than her age--she plays with Annie regularly. She acts like a five year old a lot of the time! Oh, I adore her. I don't want her to grow up!
Monday, October 12, 2015
Gotta Love It!
The finest, best-behaved, most critically-thinking, most passionate young human beings I have ever met were homeschooled children. My awe of some of these children inspired me to homeschool, with the hopes of my children turning out a fraction as wonderful as these young people were. [Caveat: Not all homeschooled children are well-behaved and balanced. But the reverse is true: the best-behaved children are often homeschooled.]
So, it has always been a joke--of the most ridiculous order--to hear people's objections, that homeschooled children are unsocialized. There are more poorly socialized children roaming the halls of public and private schools than home schools. I was would NEVER want my children to be socialized as poorly as the average school kid!
I broke out into laughter when I saw this shirt, worn by a child from one of the best families I've ever met. They are loving, compassionate, accomplished, smart people. I would be thrilled for any of my children to turn out half as well as they. The irony was too much!
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Quote of the Week
"Therefore, let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good."
1 Peter 4:19
My sweet sister Kim suggested that we both memorize this verse. I love it!
This passage has such huge implications. When there is suffer about which we can do nothing, about which we cannot resolve, we need to entrust ourselves to God, and then go out and do lots of good things for other people! We shall NOT feel sorry for ourselves! We shall instead embrace our cross, because Jesus is on it! Jesus is there! And, with Him, go out and act like him, preach like him, live like him. It is God's will.
I love passages that remind me to stop feeling sorry for myself!
1 Peter 4:19
My sweet sister Kim suggested that we both memorize this verse. I love it!
This passage has such huge implications. When there is suffer about which we can do nothing, about which we cannot resolve, we need to entrust ourselves to God, and then go out and do lots of good things for other people! We shall NOT feel sorry for ourselves! We shall instead embrace our cross, because Jesus is on it! Jesus is there! And, with Him, go out and act like him, preach like him, live like him. It is God's will.
I love passages that remind me to stop feeling sorry for myself!
Saturday, October 10, 2015
You are a Saint
I ran into an old friend today, whom I had not seen in 4 years. It was lovely to catch up. I asked her about her 24 year old son.
"Oh, please! Are you kidding? He is a complete disaster. I raised him better, but he is a louse. He does not have a good job. He is not making anything of himself. Maybe it is the media culture--I don't know. He is with a woman who has a one year old child. He could do so much better. But at least he loves that little girl. I did raise him right, and that much, at least, shows. But no, I am sobbing every day that he is not yet whom I know he can be."
Immediately I thought, "You, my friend, are St. Monica."
Today, Catholics and other Westerners revere St. Monica as a great mother saint. We think of her with a halo. But until the last months of her life, her son was as my friend described: not headed in the right direction, with the wrong lady, not becoming the man she knows he could be.
Augustine received baptism on the 24th of April, 387. Augustine and Monica had a vision of heaven together, and she died about five days later. She was buried on Nov. 13th, 387. So, for almost seven whole months, Monica's great life ambition, to see her son a faithful Catholic in an intimate, loving relationship with Christ, was fulfilled.
But for her whole motherly life save those seven months, she was a failure. She was disappointed. She would have told any woman, such as me, what my friend told me today. Monica would have sounded just like her.
We are saints. You are a saint. If your child is a catastrophe, well, join the heavenly hosts. If your child is a wreck, here is your halo.
Pray for your child! Influence your child every way that you can. Never give up. Be persistent. The faith of the one who has hope even when there is no hope is grounds for canonization.
"Oh, please! Are you kidding? He is a complete disaster. I raised him better, but he is a louse. He does not have a good job. He is not making anything of himself. Maybe it is the media culture--I don't know. He is with a woman who has a one year old child. He could do so much better. But at least he loves that little girl. I did raise him right, and that much, at least, shows. But no, I am sobbing every day that he is not yet whom I know he can be."
Immediately I thought, "You, my friend, are St. Monica."
Today, Catholics and other Westerners revere St. Monica as a great mother saint. We think of her with a halo. But until the last months of her life, her son was as my friend described: not headed in the right direction, with the wrong lady, not becoming the man she knows he could be.
Augustine received baptism on the 24th of April, 387. Augustine and Monica had a vision of heaven together, and she died about five days later. She was buried on Nov. 13th, 387. So, for almost seven whole months, Monica's great life ambition, to see her son a faithful Catholic in an intimate, loving relationship with Christ, was fulfilled.
But for her whole motherly life save those seven months, she was a failure. She was disappointed. She would have told any woman, such as me, what my friend told me today. Monica would have sounded just like her.
We are saints. You are a saint. If your child is a catastrophe, well, join the heavenly hosts. If your child is a wreck, here is your halo.
Pray for your child! Influence your child every way that you can. Never give up. Be persistent. The faith of the one who has hope even when there is no hope is grounds for canonization.
The Guidance of God
I truly believe that God can speak to you and guide you as you discern decisions.
Last week I was praying for God's guidance regarding a decision I had to make about taking on more professional work. That day, a hundred times through the day, crises occurred and I thought, "I don't have the time to do even what I'm already committed to."
So I chose against the further professional work. The following day--no crises. Everything was back to normal. But I am at complete peace about my decision because I know God wanted me to see how saturated my life already is.
Last week I was praying for God's guidance regarding a decision I had to make about taking on more professional work. That day, a hundred times through the day, crises occurred and I thought, "I don't have the time to do even what I'm already committed to."
So I chose against the further professional work. The following day--no crises. Everything was back to normal. But I am at complete peace about my decision because I know God wanted me to see how saturated my life already is.
Friday, October 9, 2015
New Family Prayers
We have re-invented family prayers. Ron made a comment a while ago about icons sparking in candle-light.
So this week I gathered all the icons in the house that have gold in them. I bought a dozen candles, including one for each child with their initial on it. After the house is cleaned before bed, we light the candles and turn out the lights. Truly, the living room glistens.
We all have a moment of silence, and think of our intentions and our thanksgiving to God. Each child is invited to see her candle representing those intentions.
We pray a full Rosary and pray a few words out loud to God.
Then we discuss anything on the kids' hearts and minds. It is truly beautiful. I love seeing them resting in the arms of God, finding their recovery from the day, not in falling asleep, but in falling into the presence of God. God is the solution. God is the answer. God is Love. God is our Home. I love seeing the kids discover and explore that.
So this week I gathered all the icons in the house that have gold in them. I bought a dozen candles, including one for each child with their initial on it. After the house is cleaned before bed, we light the candles and turn out the lights. Truly, the living room glistens.
We all have a moment of silence, and think of our intentions and our thanksgiving to God. Each child is invited to see her candle representing those intentions.
We pray a full Rosary and pray a few words out loud to God.
Then we discuss anything on the kids' hearts and minds. It is truly beautiful. I love seeing them resting in the arms of God, finding their recovery from the day, not in falling asleep, but in falling into the presence of God. God is the solution. God is the answer. God is Love. God is our Home. I love seeing the kids discover and explore that.
Push Ups on your Feet
Poor Mary: 12 years old, and getting hammered by the boys in P.E. She has received lots of negative comments. I think they are just being boys, really. Nothing too bad. But it was hard for her, and I got reports from her about P.E. every day, driving her home from school.
But one day, the camel's back broke. A boy got down at her level as she was doing standard push-ups, and he shouted at her, "Get on your knees! You're a girl. You belong on your knees!"
She was furious. She came home and cried. I was mad too. We discussed it.
She said, "Mom, they're not even called 'Girl Push-ups.' They're "Modified push-ups.' Don't those boys know that? Welcome to the 21st century!" I laughed and affirmed her. So we made up the following chant:
"Roses are red, violets are blue. We call them MODIFIED PUSH-UPS, how about you?"
She loved that. The next day she told all her girls friends the new chant.
I also talked with the coach, and he said that the boy's behavior was unacceptable, and the coach would make sure nothing like that happened again. He invited Mary to bring any such circumstances to him right away. (Thank you, Coach!)
That, coupled with the chant. . . Mary's back on her feet. . . literally as she does standard push-ups, again!
But one day, the camel's back broke. A boy got down at her level as she was doing standard push-ups, and he shouted at her, "Get on your knees! You're a girl. You belong on your knees!"
She was furious. She came home and cried. I was mad too. We discussed it.
She said, "Mom, they're not even called 'Girl Push-ups.' They're "Modified push-ups.' Don't those boys know that? Welcome to the 21st century!" I laughed and affirmed her. So we made up the following chant:
"Roses are red, violets are blue. We call them MODIFIED PUSH-UPS, how about you?"
She loved that. The next day she told all her girls friends the new chant.
I also talked with the coach, and he said that the boy's behavior was unacceptable, and the coach would make sure nothing like that happened again. He invited Mary to bring any such circumstances to him right away. (Thank you, Coach!)
That, coupled with the chant. . . Mary's back on her feet. . . literally as she does standard push-ups, again!
To Rest or Not to Rest
As the baby was wailing and five year old Annie was crying in time out, I wondered: "What has HAPPENED to these kids?"
Ron and I resolved the situations, and then handled a few more.
Then I announced: "I am open to homeschooling Annie, even next semester." That would mean pulling her out of kindergarten and keeping her at home after Christmas.
This is NOT what I wanted.
This year is my first ever sabbatical, a year off from homeschooling. I love homeschooling. But everyone needs a break sometimes.
Offering to end my sabbatical mid-way through was pretty huge for me. The sacrifice of Isaac, so to speak.
But I have to remember my priorities. That my children are well-behaved, well formed in their faith, and well educated are what matter most. A three month break for me is certainly more than most people ever get from their jobs!
Ron and I resolved the situations, and then handled a few more.
Then I announced: "I am open to homeschooling Annie, even next semester." That would mean pulling her out of kindergarten and keeping her at home after Christmas.
This is NOT what I wanted.
This year is my first ever sabbatical, a year off from homeschooling. I love homeschooling. But everyone needs a break sometimes.
Offering to end my sabbatical mid-way through was pretty huge for me. The sacrifice of Isaac, so to speak.
But I have to remember my priorities. That my children are well-behaved, well formed in their faith, and well educated are what matter most. A three month break for me is certainly more than most people ever get from their jobs!
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Lunar Eclipse!
The lunar eclipse is so beautiful! I sat out and watched it with Ron and Jake. The last one I saw, 25 years ago, was with my dad. Miss you, RAK!
Speaking of Jake, today Jake sat down next to me and said, "I'm thinking about becoming a parish priest. I think I could make huge changes for the good."
It was a big moment for me. I am so proud of him!
Speaking of Jake, today Jake sat down next to me and said, "I'm thinking about becoming a parish priest. I think I could make huge changes for the good."
It was a big moment for me. I am so proud of him!
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Upside Down Living
As a mother, I feel like I am living a life upside down. That does not just mean that I am keeping a crazy pace that is topsy-turvy! What is also upside down are my priorities.
I began my adult life wanting to promote myself. I wanted an impressive career. I wanted comfort and security. I wanted to make a name for myself.
But motherhood is the happy detour that I took, and it led me to a whole new place.
I want what is best for my children. . . which is often in conflict with any self-promotion. I have chosen huge portions of my day, week, month and year to be with them, which meant sacrificing the career I might have had. I have chosen time with them instead of a full-time job, which means forfeiting financial security we might have had.
I love my work as a philosophy instructor. I love teaching. I love the research project I am working on. But what I love the most is that my family comes first.
When I teach about philosophical views of happiness, isn't it good that I actually became happy? It took choosing family life as first priority to live it out. Now I can teach it--even though I am just teaching part-time--and do so with more authority than if I had promoted my teaching career. Isn't that ironic and fascinating?
I began my adult life wanting to promote myself. I wanted an impressive career. I wanted comfort and security. I wanted to make a name for myself.
But motherhood is the happy detour that I took, and it led me to a whole new place.
I want what is best for my children. . . which is often in conflict with any self-promotion. I have chosen huge portions of my day, week, month and year to be with them, which meant sacrificing the career I might have had. I have chosen time with them instead of a full-time job, which means forfeiting financial security we might have had.
I love my work as a philosophy instructor. I love teaching. I love the research project I am working on. But what I love the most is that my family comes first.
When I teach about philosophical views of happiness, isn't it good that I actually became happy? It took choosing family life as first priority to live it out. Now I can teach it--even though I am just teaching part-time--and do so with more authority than if I had promoted my teaching career. Isn't that ironic and fascinating?
Saturday, September 19, 2015
I Miss You Too!
"Are you happy to be going to school, Leigh?"
"Yes! Except, I really miss you, Mom," as she pats me on the arm.
Now, THAT is sweet.
I really DO miss home schooling!
"Yes! Except, I really miss you, Mom," as she pats me on the arm.
Now, THAT is sweet.
I really DO miss home schooling!
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Everybody Wants a Special Life
Everybody wants a special life. Everybody wants to do something significant, something important, something exciting.
When she was alive, my grandmother used to recount that one day, when her children were raised and gone, she sat on her front porch steps and wondered, "Is this all? What is my life for?"
We all have those moments. What makes our lives meaningful? What is it that gives them that special purpose by which we are satisfied that we have made the most of our time on this earth?
For me, that meaning comes through motherhood.
It is not just the relationships themselves--although they are wonderful. But one day, like my grandmother's children, mine, too, will be gone. My purpose in life is not about my children per se.
It is that motherhood is a way to be like God. It is in imitation of the divine.
Motherhood is about giving our life for another--as Christ gave his life for us.
Motherhood is about serving in humility, in poverty, and being low-profile, low-status, low recognition--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about shedding blood for others--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about nourishing others with our own bodies--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about interceding for others in a powerful way--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about dying to ourselves and becoming a gift to another--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about new life--just like Christ.
If we want to be really special, and want our lives to be extraordinary, we need not make six figures or make a public name for ourselves. We need not impress strangers or have a flashy image. If we want to have meaningful lives, we should shoot for the highest mark: the Blessed Trinity. We should try to become like God in every way. Then we will have lasting, eternal significance.
How many ways there are to be like God! Motherhood is the way God has given to so many of us to become like Him.
When she was alive, my grandmother used to recount that one day, when her children were raised and gone, she sat on her front porch steps and wondered, "Is this all? What is my life for?"
We all have those moments. What makes our lives meaningful? What is it that gives them that special purpose by which we are satisfied that we have made the most of our time on this earth?
For me, that meaning comes through motherhood.
It is not just the relationships themselves--although they are wonderful. But one day, like my grandmother's children, mine, too, will be gone. My purpose in life is not about my children per se.
It is that motherhood is a way to be like God. It is in imitation of the divine.
Motherhood is about giving our life for another--as Christ gave his life for us.
Motherhood is about serving in humility, in poverty, and being low-profile, low-status, low recognition--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about shedding blood for others--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about nourishing others with our own bodies--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about interceding for others in a powerful way--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about dying to ourselves and becoming a gift to another--just like Christ.
Motherhood is about new life--just like Christ.
If we want to be really special, and want our lives to be extraordinary, we need not make six figures or make a public name for ourselves. We need not impress strangers or have a flashy image. If we want to have meaningful lives, we should shoot for the highest mark: the Blessed Trinity. We should try to become like God in every way. Then we will have lasting, eternal significance.
How many ways there are to be like God! Motherhood is the way God has given to so many of us to become like Him.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Sebastian's First Haircut
The little cherub bit me, screamed and thrashed as I cut off his longest curly locks (which looked like a mullet and so it was definitely time)!
But now he looks like a cherub again!
But now he looks like a cherub again!
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Book. . . What book?
It is so funny. . . my friend/editor saw me recently, and mentioned the book I am writing and she is editing. She asked me about the number of chapters I plan to write. I got confused as to how many I have even written so far. I thought that was sort of funny--not even to know.
But then, even funnier: I was just looking for the document on my computer and I cannot even find it!!! I am sure it is there somewhere. But goodness, what a low priority!!
What is a HIGH priority for me is: hearing about my children's days, hearing about their friends, hearing about their schoolwork; making meals as wonderfully as I can; making the most of these last five years that I have with all of my children home. Jacob will graduate and go to college in 5 short years, and I am making the most of this time!
But then, even funnier: I was just looking for the document on my computer and I cannot even find it!!! I am sure it is there somewhere. But goodness, what a low priority!!
What is a HIGH priority for me is: hearing about my children's days, hearing about their friends, hearing about their schoolwork; making meals as wonderfully as I can; making the most of these last five years that I have with all of my children home. Jacob will graduate and go to college in 5 short years, and I am making the most of this time!
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
"The perfection of charity"
In every Mass, we pray that God would give us the grace to bring us to the "perfection of charity," that to which Christ commands us at the end of the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5?48). Really??!? The perfection of charity? Perfect love of every single person, including strangers, our enemies, ourselves? That is a really tall order.
A friend told me many years ago: "I know God has called you to the perfection of charity." I??? That seemed impossible. But she was correct: ALL of us are called to it. Not just I, but you, and everyone.
These days, that phrase is standing out to me in Mass. I am really ran to reflect on it.
The hard thing about that is that to be loving, I have to put others before myself. So, perfect love depends on humility--LOTS of humility. That is no easy thing for me.
The great thing about it, however, is that we are called to perfect CHARITY, not perfection as such. I don't have to be perfect at writing thank you notes or in speaking just right in conversation. I can forget a birthday or misunderstand someone's intention. I can have HUGE failings, actually, and be tragically erroneous in how I approach someone or something. I might have horrible blemishes in the fabric of my life. I might terribly regret choices I've made or the miseries that my life has taken me through.
God does not need us to be superstars. God does not need us to be free of error. God does not want us to be gods. Rather, God just wants us to be humble, quick to forgive, and free of malice, resentment and wrath. God wants us to embrace our failings and our mis-steps, and let them help us become smaller in our own estimation of ourselves. Then He can be bigger in our lives, and we can love Him more perfectly.
Lord, purify us of the obstacles to LOVE!
Sunday, September 6, 2015
I've got the joy
Every morning, Clare (of all people) starts us off with a song on the car ride to school: "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart." She likes starting the day off with joy. She says it makes the whole day go well.
I'll tell you what I WOULD HAVE PAID 5 years ago for one little song to keep her joyful all day! She has really, really improved from her miserable, autistic days. She is radiant. She is glowing. She loves school. She is fitting in. She is making friends. She is horrible at some school work, but great at others. That's what I call "normal." We have a zero stress policy about grades, and that is because these kids already work so hard. It is leaning in the right direction.
Two weeks of school--Clare is flourishing. I am SO GRATEFUL! It is years and years of work on my part, coming to fruition. For a child who has autistic tendencies, it is like seeing a healed child. Oh, I am so grateful!!
I'll tell you what I WOULD HAVE PAID 5 years ago for one little song to keep her joyful all day! She has really, really improved from her miserable, autistic days. She is radiant. She is glowing. She loves school. She is fitting in. She is making friends. She is horrible at some school work, but great at others. That's what I call "normal." We have a zero stress policy about grades, and that is because these kids already work so hard. It is leaning in the right direction.
Two weeks of school--Clare is flourishing. I am SO GRATEFUL! It is years and years of work on my part, coming to fruition. For a child who has autistic tendencies, it is like seeing a healed child. Oh, I am so grateful!!
Happy Birthday, Jacob!
Ron, Jacob, and another Dad took 6 boys to the lake--they had a blast. It is really something to see Jacob turn into a young man.
The other Dad told Ron that Jacob corrected one of his friends who had taken the Lord's name in vain. Ron said to the Dad, "Oh, I hope Jake wasn't too rough!" The dad said, "No, I'll tell you what I saw. Leadership!"
Blessings upon you, Jacob, as you enter adulthood. May your life be inundated with grace from God!
The other Dad told Ron that Jacob corrected one of his friends who had taken the Lord's name in vain. Ron said to the Dad, "Oh, I hope Jake wasn't too rough!" The dad said, "No, I'll tell you what I saw. Leadership!"
Blessings upon you, Jacob, as you enter adulthood. May your life be inundated with grace from God!
Monday, August 31, 2015
Jake's Cross Country Meet
Jake made the core team of cross-country this week and raced in his first meet. Not starting out life as an athlete, he is sure making up some ground!
His dad is training for a marathon in December. So he is inviting Jake to do some of his training with him. Boy, Jake is about to come into his best years with his dad. Ron is so knowledgable about athletics and effective and efficient training. I bet Jake sees real progress due to his father's help. How irreplaceable is a father!
Daily Mass
After several years of not attending daily Mass, due to the baby in my arms and massive schooling responsibilities, I am now back on track. Oh, what a difference it makes! Not attending is truly a sacrifice.
Even if I accomplish nothing else all year, attending daily Mass will be worth it all!
Even if I accomplish nothing else all year, attending daily Mass will be worth it all!
Thursday, August 27, 2015
What is Philosophy?
Philosophy might seem aloof, detached from real life or the real affairs of human activity. But quite the opposite, philosophy has everything to do with our real lives. Philosophy is the questioning and probing of the essential human life questions: Who am I? Where am I going? What really matters? Our answers to these questions, whether they come through our faith or through other means, determine our most important life choices. As John Paul II writes:
"In different parts of the world, with their different cultures, there arise at the same time the fundamental questions which pervade human life: Who am I? Where have I come from and where am I going? Why is there evil? What is there after this life? . . . These are the questions which have their common source in the quest for meaning which has always compelled the human heart. In fact, the answer given to these questions decides the direction which people seek to give to their lives."
(John Paul II, Fides et Ratio, para.1)
"In different parts of the world, with their different cultures, there arise at the same time the fundamental questions which pervade human life: Who am I? Where have I come from and where am I going? Why is there evil? What is there after this life? . . . These are the questions which have their common source in the quest for meaning which has always compelled the human heart. In fact, the answer given to these questions decides the direction which people seek to give to their lives."
(John Paul II, Fides et Ratio, para.1)
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Gotta Love Big Families
We have an awesome babysitter who is from a big family--she is the sixth of nine children. Well, I ask her if they do immunizations--Sebastian had just gotten his. I was just making small talk.
This sweet girl chuckles and says: "My Mom used to waive a few of them, including the one for chicken pox, on moral grounds. But finally, the doctor convinced her to give it to me when I was two years old. We came home and I was all cranky and miserable. Mom told the family what happened. The oldest child cried out, 'But Mom! Don't you remember? She has HAD the chicken pox!!!"
This sweet girl chuckles and says: "My Mom used to waive a few of them, including the one for chicken pox, on moral grounds. But finally, the doctor convinced her to give it to me when I was two years old. We came home and I was all cranky and miserable. Mom told the family what happened. The oldest child cried out, 'But Mom! Don't you remember? She has HAD the chicken pox!!!"
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
"How was your day?"
I laughed so hard at how LONG it took five kids to answer my question, "How was your day?" They had completed their first day of school and all had lots to report. But TWO HOURS later I had to call an end to it so I could get dinner going and get them started on their homework.
Having six children is just SO MANY! Think about how many collective hours it is when we are all spending 8 am-3 pm in different places/classrooms, etc. Ron at work, 5 kids in various classrooms, and then Sebastian and I together: that is approximately 7x7, plus a few more for Ron who doesn't get home till later. That is over 50 man-hours! No wonder it takes so long to de-brief!
Having six children is just SO MANY! Think about how many collective hours it is when we are all spending 8 am-3 pm in different places/classrooms, etc. Ron at work, 5 kids in various classrooms, and then Sebastian and I together: that is approximately 7x7, plus a few more for Ron who doesn't get home till later. That is over 50 man-hours! No wonder it takes so long to de-brief!
Saturday, August 22, 2015
Did you know. . . ?
Some of my favorite family members are waging war against sex trafficking. I have relatives that are giving their lives to end this horrible slavery.
But did you know that Planned Parenthood aids and abets sex trafficking? Today I heard a shocking testimony from a former employee of PP that she was trained to help, aid and abet sex trafficking, and not get caught.
So sad! So horrible!
Planned Parenthood is truly Anti-woman, Anti-personal dignity. If I were pro-choice (which I am not), I would SERIOUSLY be considering how to provide an alternative to PP, since PP is so horrific, it is going down. Truly, it cannot survive. It is too corrupt--extracting baby parts, and "dissecting" aborted babies, mutilating them and saying, "How cool!" It is just horrific. Anything too corrupt cannot last. And PP cannot last. If I were pro-choice, I would be scrambling to be finding an alternative to PP for legal abortions. Otherwise, I am convinced Roe v.Wade will be overturned.
But did you know that Planned Parenthood aids and abets sex trafficking? Today I heard a shocking testimony from a former employee of PP that she was trained to help, aid and abet sex trafficking, and not get caught.
So sad! So horrible!
"Life is Sacred"
"My Generation Will End Abortion"
"Planned Parenthood Profits From Abortion"
Planned Parenthood is truly Anti-woman, Anti-personal dignity. If I were pro-choice (which I am not), I would SERIOUSLY be considering how to provide an alternative to PP, since PP is so horrific, it is going down. Truly, it cannot survive. It is too corrupt--extracting baby parts, and "dissecting" aborted babies, mutilating them and saying, "How cool!" It is just horrific. Anything too corrupt cannot last. And PP cannot last. If I were pro-choice, I would be scrambling to be finding an alternative to PP for legal abortions. Otherwise, I am convinced Roe v.Wade will be overturned.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Quote from St. Claude Colombiere
"You love all your enemies, and you love them very tenderly, with the exception of only one; and you willingly forgive that one there all the evil he has done to you, with the exception of one sole insult; and still you do not intend to take other revenge for it, if only that you would make for hum a little less good and fewer signs of esteem than before. If you are in this disposition, you have no Christian charity, no love for your neighbor. The authentic virtues are limited neither to certain times, nor to certain actions, nor to certain particular subjects. The one who possesses them is disposed to practice them in all things, in all encounters, with regard to all kinds of people, and in all ways."
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Our Scent Garden
There's nothing I love quite so much. . . as new plants for my garden!
I am planting a "scent" garden for Clare, who has a supersonic sense of smell, and for whom lovely scents are as good as therapy! Today we planted 6 French Lavender, 2 mint, 3 eucalyptus. Then I planted some new basil and oregano, as well as some flowers for our front walkway--lantana and "firecrackers"--not really sure what these orange blooming plants are, but they're pretty!
I look forward to sending Clare out on days in which school was hard and she is miserable, and telling her, "Go harvest the mint, please." She will come back inside, so happy! Mint grows like crazy. So she can just whack away at it, and never hurt it, never deplete it. I love it!
I look forward to sending Clare out on days in which school was hard and she is miserable, and telling her, "Go harvest the mint, please." She will come back inside, so happy! Mint grows like crazy. So she can just whack away at it, and never hurt it, never deplete it. I love it!
Saturday, August 15, 2015
Pope Francis: "Open Doors"
Pope Francis says:
"How much good we can do, if only we try to speak this language of hospitality. . . . This requires open doors, especially the doors of our heart . . . [and] welcoming those who do not think as we do, who do not have faith or who have lost it; welcoming the persecuted, the unemployed; welcoming different cultures. . . welcoming sinners. . . ."
Why was Christ baptized? Why did He ask John to give Him a sinner's baptism, the mark of repentance? What did Christ have to repent of?
Christ was baptized in order to identify with sinners. He came, not to heal the well, but the sick. He came to serve not the rich of heart, but the poor of heart. We too, following His example, are called to reach out and love with all our hearts those who are in need of Christ's saving love. Christ just might come to them and save them through our love.
"How much good we can do, if only we try to speak this language of hospitality. . . . This requires open doors, especially the doors of our heart . . . [and] welcoming those who do not think as we do, who do not have faith or who have lost it; welcoming the persecuted, the unemployed; welcoming different cultures. . . welcoming sinners. . . ."
Why was Christ baptized? Why did He ask John to give Him a sinner's baptism, the mark of repentance? What did Christ have to repent of?
Christ was baptized in order to identify with sinners. He came, not to heal the well, but the sick. He came to serve not the rich of heart, but the poor of heart. We too, following His example, are called to reach out and love with all our hearts those who are in need of Christ's saving love. Christ just might come to them and save them through our love.
Friday, August 14, 2015
Spiritual Growth
A major advantage that people of faith have, people with an active spiritual life, is that, when hardships come, they have a way of coping. They might have the wisdom to see that the hardship is minor, in contrast to their many blessings. They might have a practice of gratitude. They might imagine heaven, or belonging to God, and consequently see their problems in a much smaller scale. As a result, people with productive spiritual lives are rich. They have a worthy asset. Their non-spiritual counterparts are impoverished people indeed. I always feel so sorry for secular people. They seem so miserable--judging others with a critical eye, always looking out for the protection of their mighty egos, being fixated on goods like reputation or wealth that can so easily slip through their fingers. How miserable.
It is one thing to accept hardships in our lives and not let them ruffle us too much. But it is another huge jump forward in the spiritual life to see one's hardships as blessings. To see them as the actual source of goodness in one's life (all the while remaining hardships) is a matter of spiritual mastery. How almost impossible this is to the natural self, not only to accept a hardship, but to welcome it!
The Christian faith, and I believe the Christian faith alone, affords the chance to attain this spiritual genius. The cross, according to Scripture, is life-giving. The cross, while remaining awful, is what opens heaven for people who do not deserve it. The cross is what God uses to give wonderful gifts to people who have been mean to God, who have shunned God, who have fallen short, over and over, of God's hope for them. The cross IS mercy. When a person, even a sinner, even a wretched person far from God, says, "Yes" to the cross, and "Yes" to God's mercy, then she finds immediate love and forgiveness. Then, when she has crosses in her life, she can, not only live with them, putting them into perspective, but actually welcome them, embracing them as life-giving. Crosses in our lives are sources of grace. They are fonts of humility, joy, peace, surrender, and intimacy with the Lord. The greatest spiritual wisdom is to not just accept our crosses, but actually cling to them.
God, grant me the grace I need to embrace my crosses. How desperately I need your help to tread such heights!
It is one thing to accept hardships in our lives and not let them ruffle us too much. But it is another huge jump forward in the spiritual life to see one's hardships as blessings. To see them as the actual source of goodness in one's life (all the while remaining hardships) is a matter of spiritual mastery. How almost impossible this is to the natural self, not only to accept a hardship, but to welcome it!
The Christian faith, and I believe the Christian faith alone, affords the chance to attain this spiritual genius. The cross, according to Scripture, is life-giving. The cross, while remaining awful, is what opens heaven for people who do not deserve it. The cross is what God uses to give wonderful gifts to people who have been mean to God, who have shunned God, who have fallen short, over and over, of God's hope for them. The cross IS mercy. When a person, even a sinner, even a wretched person far from God, says, "Yes" to the cross, and "Yes" to God's mercy, then she finds immediate love and forgiveness. Then, when she has crosses in her life, she can, not only live with them, putting them into perspective, but actually welcome them, embracing them as life-giving. Crosses in our lives are sources of grace. They are fonts of humility, joy, peace, surrender, and intimacy with the Lord. The greatest spiritual wisdom is to not just accept our crosses, but actually cling to them.
God, grant me the grace I need to embrace my crosses. How desperately I need your help to tread such heights!
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
Clare's Evaluation
Clare and I have been at an evaluation center several times this week, testing her for learning differences such as dyslexia, as well as spectrum issues, including asbergers (no longer in the DSM as an official diagnosis) and autism.
I am overjoyed to report that she has no signs at all of being on the spectrum! I am so, so happy! She has some behaviors that could be, but that could be explained in other ways. But the clinician said that she shows signs that are the exact opposite of autism, that are mutually exclusive with autism (concern for other people's feelings, awareness of their difference from you, being able to say the same thing multiple ways, significant levels of self-awareness and introspection, etc.).
Driving home, I explained to Clare: "The clinician found that you are an A++ in being able to be a good friend to other people!" Clare beamed. We then spent the next half hour talking about making friends, and whom she might want to seek out. Oh, the relief. It was such a good talk.
This has been a very positive experience. She is taking away from it that she is normal, that she is capable of great relationships, that her siblings make her mad but that is normal, and that she has some learning differences but that that has no bearing on her intelligence. So she, her teachers and I are now equipped to deal with her differences and odd, off-beat way with new eyes and better skills. Yes, she is unusual in how she learns and how her brain works. We will meet with the clinician to talk about next steps. But overall, it seems manageable, and I am so, so grateful!
I am overjoyed to report that she has no signs at all of being on the spectrum! I am so, so happy! She has some behaviors that could be, but that could be explained in other ways. But the clinician said that she shows signs that are the exact opposite of autism, that are mutually exclusive with autism (concern for other people's feelings, awareness of their difference from you, being able to say the same thing multiple ways, significant levels of self-awareness and introspection, etc.).
Driving home, I explained to Clare: "The clinician found that you are an A++ in being able to be a good friend to other people!" Clare beamed. We then spent the next half hour talking about making friends, and whom she might want to seek out. Oh, the relief. It was such a good talk.
This has been a very positive experience. She is taking away from it that she is normal, that she is capable of great relationships, that her siblings make her mad but that is normal, and that she has some learning differences but that that has no bearing on her intelligence. So she, her teachers and I are now equipped to deal with her differences and odd, off-beat way with new eyes and better skills. Yes, she is unusual in how she learns and how her brain works. We will meet with the clinician to talk about next steps. But overall, it seems manageable, and I am so, so grateful!
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Happy Birthday, Sebastian!
It is amazing to think that Sebastian is ONE YEAR OLD! He is so precious: his little blond curls, his sweet, husky voice, his gentle demeanor. He toddles, peeking around chairs and smiling at you. He plays with his very, very favorite thing, balls, any and all the time: soccer balls, footballs, exercise balls, beach balls, you name it. He learned to kick a soccer ball before he learned to walk! Holding an adult's hands, he kicked away!
His best party trick is waving to people. He had a virtual waving ministry in Italy. That country has so few children. People were just wowed and melted into puddles, seeing him wave at them. He lit up the whole country, waving to people of all kinds--punk rockers, grandparents, store keepers. He had them all beaming and waving back at him.
His best party trick is waving to people. He had a virtual waving ministry in Italy. That country has so few children. People were just wowed and melted into puddles, seeing him wave at them. He lit up the whole country, waving to people of all kinds--punk rockers, grandparents, store keepers. He had them all beaming and waving back at him.
Thinking back to a year ago--we've come a long way! What an angel he's been--chubby cheeks baby!
God Bless you, Little Man!
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