This too shall pass

As I head into a week of many complex meetings and travel, I am reminding myself that "this too shall pass". This quote, often appears in writings of the Persian Sufi poets and was also employed in a speech by Abraham Lincoln.  I know now as I experience more of living, that things come and go, stress comes and goes and life must be lived in each moment so that it is full and complete. So while I know "this too shall pass," I look forward to it's passing :) and to the moment of peace. Hmm, I already feel better and more at peace in this moment. Alleluia.

Thanksgiving

Winding down this thanksgiving weekend I feel reflective and deeply grateful.  Joe and I spent thanksgiving with my parents in Arkansas. We also travelled to visit Joe's mother in St. Louis, MO.  Time with our parents is healing and life giving. Arkansas and Missouri are beautiful states and have a more peaceful pace.  We are home now and just enjoyed some home made turkey soup from leftovers mom and dad sent with us.  As I head into a very hectic week, being present to this moment and reflecting on the past few days is calming.  For now, I count my blessings, and say thank you.

Aida Romeo

Aida is 85 years old and is a member of our “catholic young adult” club that started in 1990. Although we are no longer considered "young adults," we have continued to meet for an annual reunion.  Aida joins often and brings a life to the party well below her years. The more I spend time with Aida the more I experience the real secrets of a long and happy life. She never says a bad thing about anyone and never complains about anything. She praises God for all that is and is grateful to be alive. Aida remembers the time my sister Bridget helped her fix her bed and the many acts of kindness people have done. Her memory is sharp for good things and while her walk is slow, she is energized in listening and sharing in conversation. Every moment is wonderful to be with Aida. She has little money, but enough. She makes simple meals, prays daily, stays connected with friends and family and delights in watching mass on TV. Her simple life offers a glimpse of heaven and yesterday was heaven on earth spending time with Aida.

Vibrations of the music generate joyful energy.

I listen to Renaissance's Northern Lights and I am moved within to be. Be present to this moment and just to be alive. I literally am moving my fingertips on this keyboard streaming consciousness and feeling a lightness and joy.  The northern lights are leading me back to write. Good day to all.

I thirst.

The other evening our St. Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) held a mass, dinner and reflection time. It was an opportunity to renew our commitment to service of the poor and to refresh our approach when visiting Christ who is most visible in the poor.  Being typically bogged down with work and other social commitments this brief time together was very special. The SVDP works as a safety net for people who need emergency food, clothing, rent and other stop gap needs. As president of our local conference, I am responsible in leading our local members,  and making home visits to our poor on weekends. We meet with the poor, see how we can help, pray and provide food vouchers for immediate needs. SVDP was started in 1830 by Frederick Ozanam.  Lorraine Moriarty, our Director, closed the evening with a comment that resonated deeply. As Christ said, "I thirst," so do I to serve with a compassionate heart.

Finding inspiration

Finding inspiration in this early morning moment before the race of my workday begins.

There is a light breeze and it brings coolness to this morning. Over the past many weeks, the sun has shined brightly. Today a few days of beautiful gray and rain are expected. I linger in this morning mesmerized by the gentleness of this day unfolding. Like the breeze that comes and goes this day, I hope to move into the day’s busyness with lightness and a cool calm. I will bring that to this day.

A plea to offer prayer intention for peace to the couple in Pittsburgh

I only saw a brief snippet on yahoo news regarding the tragedy of their child losing his balance and falling into a local zoo's wild African dog exhibit.  The child fell when the parent was trying to give him a better view of these most dangerous dogs. I know there is much suffering in the world, struggle in life, loss and other life challenges. This story, however, causes a deep pain for all of us as we know that it could be any one of us that this may have happened.  We never understand fully why things happen to some versus others. There are no explanations that can reduce the depth of sorrow, pain and suffering these parents and extended family will endure.  However, for today, when you read this, or other heart breaking stories, stop, breathe, and pray that this family will find the peace that their little child now knows in the resting state many call heaven.  We are with you in prayer. Allow us to absorb some of you pain so that your pain may be lessened. Together, we walk with you, leading you to peace.