Monday, December 27, 2010
Quiet...
Even when the room is filled with the voices of my children, music in the background, and the clicking of the computer keys, there is a certain sense of QUIET here. There will be leftovers for dinner, complete with dessert. And the laundry will still be there tomorrow to be folded. So, I am taking the day off, and just hanging out. There are books to be read, playdoh to mold, songs to sing....... I am at peace. Happy Christmas.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Jesus is the Reason for the Season!
In this very busy season, so many are blinded by the dazzling lights and extravagant displays of materialism and drawn away from the true meaning of Christmas. At this time of year, there is a greater need for prayer than some might realize. Today, I offer this prayer, in an effort to keep the focus on the reason for the season...
God bless people everywhere in this holy season.
Help them to keep Christ central in their hearts and minds,
And to turn their thoughts to Jesus whenever temptations of the material world accost them.
Open the hearts of all people to the message of hope and the saving grace Jesus provides.
Guide those who need to experience His presence more fully to a complete conversion,
So that they might focus on Him and follow Him, to become the people You mean for them to be.
Grant peace and joy to all those who seek Jesus, as well as to all those who need Him but do not know it.
Amen.
Friday, December 10, 2010
"Thank you for contacting Heaven's Tech Support! This is Jesus; how may I help you?"
 |
So, a couple of days ago, my computer got sick. It was some kind of cold or something. I am not sure from whence it came; but it was a nasty little virus, for sure. Thankfully, a renowned computer doctor--my husband--made a house call and treated the computer immediately. Until he cleaned up the virus, all I could envision was me on hold with tech support for hours, without getting any real help/answers, followed by me disconnecting the computer to send it out to be fixed and receiving a hefty bill for the service--all while my son languished (however happily) without computer access for homeschooling! My husband said he had no idea how the computer was cured; he said it was a miracle...
But what is a miracle? A noun, miracle is defined as 1. an effect or extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to a supernatural cause; 2. such an effect or event manifesting or considered as a work of god [sic]; 3. a wonder; marvel. (1) Okay. So, as great a troubleshooter as he is, my husband is right: the removal of the virus from my computer and fact that I am able to type this blog entry today IS a miracle--albeit only in the sense of the third definition here.
But what constitutes a miracle in the sense of the first two definitions? Many people have used the word at one time or another to describe something they have witnessed or wished. But real, true miracles are such anomalies, so separate from those of us not directly affected, that it is difficult to really understand what a miracle is, what a miracle FEELS like.
I have been a direct witness to what my family believes is a miracle. When my father visited me several years ago, he developed a large growth in his neck, seemingly overnight. Upon his return home, he saw a doctor who discovered that it was a cancerous tumor that had been growing for some time; and things looked extremely bleak. Luckily, it turns out there were some folks in Heaven watching out for him...
 |
| Bernadette Soubirous |
My family is blessed to have witnessed such a great miracle. Anyone might bear witness to miracles such as these, through faith. Faithful prayer is our direct line to Heaven. It is good to know that between Mary, Jesus, and the holy Saints, we will always have the very best customer service representatives when we call Heaven's Tech Support!
Citations
"miracle." Dictionary.com Unabridged. Random House, Inc. 09 Dec. 2010. <Dictionary.com
Wikipedia contributors. "Lourdes." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 5 Dec. 2010. Web. 9 Dec. 2010.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Tweeting for God...
Take pride in God, and He will take pride in you!
Take care of God, and He will take care of you!
Keep God as your first priority in life, and He will keep you as His first priority!
I will try to remember this today.
I may have to write it down on sticky notes and post them all over the house.
This is important stuff.
(If I was a member of the Twitter-verse, today I would say--ahem--tweet these things!)
Take care of God, and He will take care of you!
Keep God as your first priority in life, and He will keep you as His first priority!
I will try to remember this today.
I may have to write it down on sticky notes and post them all over the house.
This is important stuff.
(If I was a member of the Twitter-verse, today I would say--ahem--tweet these things!)
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
My Dickinson, My Cocoa
These last few days have been particularly cold...as cold as Dickinson...
The person I imagine Emily Dickinson to be is almost a shell of a person, blank and bright like snow. I imagine her through her poetry. That she was a recluse of sorts who usually dressed head-to-toe in white in her later years, seems to uphold this idea. But her poetic gift also yields an image of a person not at all shell-like and blank, but rather robust and passionate...
Emily Dickinson's poetry deals with a variety of themes--love, spirituality, death and immortality, and nature. The following poem by Dickinson is usually called "The Snow" (though she titled none of her poems). It is a great example of a poem that rather straightforwardly describes a snowfall, but manages to evoke a sense of warmth as well. I recall in its reading the way I often feel upon returning home after a cold day out, warmth from a cup of hot cocoa and the smiles of my children spreading and edging out the chill of the day...
It sifts from leaden sieves,
It powders all the wood,
It fills with alabaster wool
The wrinkles of the road.
It makes an even face
Of mountain and of plain, --
Unbroken forehead from the east
Unto the east again.
It reaches to the fence,
It wraps it, rail by rail,
Till it is lost in fleeces;
It flings a crystal veil
On stump and stack and stem, --
The summer's empty room,
Acres of seams where harvests were,
Recordless, but for them.
It ruffles wrists of posts,
As ankles of a queen, --
Then stills its artisans like ghosts,
Denying they have been.
The person I imagine Emily Dickinson to be is almost a shell of a person, blank and bright like snow. I imagine her through her poetry. That she was a recluse of sorts who usually dressed head-to-toe in white in her later years, seems to uphold this idea. But her poetic gift also yields an image of a person not at all shell-like and blank, but rather robust and passionate...
Emily Dickinson's poetry deals with a variety of themes--love, spirituality, death and immortality, and nature. The following poem by Dickinson is usually called "The Snow" (though she titled none of her poems). It is a great example of a poem that rather straightforwardly describes a snowfall, but manages to evoke a sense of warmth as well. I recall in its reading the way I often feel upon returning home after a cold day out, warmth from a cup of hot cocoa and the smiles of my children spreading and edging out the chill of the day...
It sifts from leaden sieves,
It powders all the wood,
It fills with alabaster wool
The wrinkles of the road.
It makes an even face
Of mountain and of plain, --
Unbroken forehead from the east
Unto the east again.
It reaches to the fence,
It wraps it, rail by rail,
Till it is lost in fleeces;
It flings a crystal veil
On stump and stack and stem, --
The summer's empty room,
Acres of seams where harvests were,
Recordless, but for them.
It ruffles wrists of posts,
As ankles of a queen, --
Then stills its artisans like ghosts,
Denying they have been.
Monday, November 22, 2010
First Snow...
The first snow of the season came to us this past weekend. Of course, I had to go the grocery store. On top of the fact that I generally do not enjoy grocery shopping, also I am not a cold weather girl. So, it was with great wailing and gnashing of teeth that I climbed into my car and pulled out of the garage. Once at the store, I parked and got out of the car. The cold air hit me like a slap in the face, the stinging flakes lashing at my cheeks. Greyness cloaked the once-blue sky. I was officially grumpy. I hurriedly shopped, scooping up items I needed (but forgetting some, as well) as I walked briskly down the aisles. Check-out time. After digging out the credit card, I shoved the groceries into bags and advanced to the exit.
But as I drove home, I recalled the faces of my children as they awoke to the snowfall earlier that morning. There was wonder in their eyes, and joyous smiles on their lips. They were bubbling over at the thought of skiing and sledding and building snowmen, so happy at the sight of the falling snow. I decided to change my perspective, and look at that first snow through their eyes...
First Snow
by Erika Mehlhaff
First snow
Falling flakes of cold crystal
A soft, white promise
Glistening
Bright
Refreshing
New
Like Spring
But as I drove home, I recalled the faces of my children as they awoke to the snowfall earlier that morning. There was wonder in their eyes, and joyous smiles on their lips. They were bubbling over at the thought of skiing and sledding and building snowmen, so happy at the sight of the falling snow. I decided to change my perspective, and look at that first snow through their eyes...
First Snow
by Erika Mehlhaff
First snow
Falling flakes of cold crystal
A soft, white promise
Glistening
Bright
Refreshing
New
Like Spring
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Reminders...
I have been reminded in the last 24 hrs that even in my most stressful moments, my most worrisome moments, my most empty and hopeless moments, I surely have been blessed beyond what I deserve.
I have been blessed to have the best people in my life, and so many awesome experiences and adventures. I am truly lucky.
But what if, in a split second, my whole world was turned upside down? What if some small thing changed the trajectory of my life forever? What if my story was edited to become "someone else's story?"
There are many events and occassions that might change a life. Some are planned; some are unplanned; some are happy and exciting; some are heartbreaking. There are marriages and births and goals met; there are divorces and deaths and dreams unrealized. And all of these things are blessings. "Even the negative things?" you might ask. Absolutely. If it can enrich one's life, clarify one's purpose, and/or bring one closer to God, it is a blessing! Each blessing, small or large, directs us to be who we are supposed to be and to live how we are supposed to live--even if it is not in line with our plans for ourselves! Each blessing, small or large, is a reminder of God's plan for each of us!
I am reminded today to count my blessings. I hope to be a reminder to others to do the same...
I have been blessed to have the best people in my life, and so many awesome experiences and adventures. I am truly lucky.
But what if, in a split second, my whole world was turned upside down? What if some small thing changed the trajectory of my life forever? What if my story was edited to become "someone else's story?"
There are many events and occassions that might change a life. Some are planned; some are unplanned; some are happy and exciting; some are heartbreaking. There are marriages and births and goals met; there are divorces and deaths and dreams unrealized. And all of these things are blessings. "Even the negative things?" you might ask. Absolutely. If it can enrich one's life, clarify one's purpose, and/or bring one closer to God, it is a blessing! Each blessing, small or large, directs us to be who we are supposed to be and to live how we are supposed to live--even if it is not in line with our plans for ourselves! Each blessing, small or large, is a reminder of God's plan for each of us!
I am reminded today to count my blessings. I hope to be a reminder to others to do the same...
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Truth...
Truth, a trio of haiku
by Erika Mehlhaff
Unveiled Truth, distinct
Full and empty all at once
That which makes us whole
Unveiled Truth, entire
Amends the insufficient
Makes us better men
Unveiled Truth, perfect
Unmitigated guidance
Bold reality
***
There is no film of any kind, nor spoken word nor song, that can unveil the Truth like the written word. Whether as fiction or nonfiction, prose or poetry, Truth written in earnest spills forth as clearly and completely as the ink from that which would transcribe it.
The written word allows us to process Truth within ourselves, and then apply it in our lives. It is then that we are faced with the choice of what to do in the name of that Truth. It is then that we are challenged to do right, even when it would be easier to do otherwise. It is then that we are challenged to be bolder, brighter, better men.
Truth is what guides us all, in some way or another. Truth, often obscured by the universe, is our bold reality. Do you recognize the Truth?
by Erika Mehlhaff
Unveiled Truth, distinct
Full and empty all at once
That which makes us whole
Unveiled Truth, entire
Amends the insufficient
Makes us better men
Unveiled Truth, perfect
Unmitigated guidance
Bold reality
***
There is no film of any kind, nor spoken word nor song, that can unveil the Truth like the written word. Whether as fiction or nonfiction, prose or poetry, Truth written in earnest spills forth as clearly and completely as the ink from that which would transcribe it.
The written word allows us to process Truth within ourselves, and then apply it in our lives. It is then that we are faced with the choice of what to do in the name of that Truth. It is then that we are challenged to do right, even when it would be easier to do otherwise. It is then that we are challenged to be bolder, brighter, better men.
Truth is what guides us all, in some way or another. Truth, often obscured by the universe, is our bold reality. Do you recognize the Truth?
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Today, I feel November-ly...
November seems one of the best months of the year for poetry. Poetry in Autumn can do something for the soul, either settling into it like the chill of the wind settles into one's bones, or warming it like a blazing fire warms one's hands...
November
by Erika Mehlhaff
November brings melancholy.
There is rain...and wind.
There is a coldness that
Rounds out the days
And surrounds us like a shell,
Empty and strange and colorless and anemic...
And yet...
November brings peace.
There is rain...and wind.
There is a warmth that
Rounds out the days
And surrounds us like a shroud,
Open and familiar and radiant and sanguine...
***
Happy November to one and all...
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Gardening for Glory
My daily devotions are all online. Today, the focus was on the words from Luke 8:15:
How can I prepare soil that seems to fight back with me at every opportunity? What can I do to clear out the weeds and rocks and fertilize that soil? My only recourse has been prayer--my own and those I have requested. And though I would like to think that prayer is enough for everyone, I am faced with the possibility that for some, more than prayer is needed. I am faced with the possibility that I am missing something. But what could it be...?
I will continue to pray that the Word might take root with less resistance in the hearts of those who need to hear it the most. And I will pray for some enlightenment as to what else I can do to encourage this. It is my great hope that the hearts around me ALL transform into lush and fragrant gardens of the Word, and that we can cultivate them together for God's greater glory.
E.
A link to today's devotion: http://www.loyolapress.com/assets/Bookcovers/58916_rich-soil.swf
But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.The question of whether or not the soil of my life is rich enough for the seed to be planted is easily answered for me. The Word of God has taken root in my heart already, and I try to tend that garden every day! However, as I reflect on this more deeply, I am faced with the question of whether or not I can prepare the hearts of others in the same way...
How can I prepare soil that seems to fight back with me at every opportunity? What can I do to clear out the weeds and rocks and fertilize that soil? My only recourse has been prayer--my own and those I have requested. And though I would like to think that prayer is enough for everyone, I am faced with the possibility that for some, more than prayer is needed. I am faced with the possibility that I am missing something. But what could it be...?
I will continue to pray that the Word might take root with less resistance in the hearts of those who need to hear it the most. And I will pray for some enlightenment as to what else I can do to encourage this. It is my great hope that the hearts around me ALL transform into lush and fragrant gardens of the Word, and that we can cultivate them together for God's greater glory.
E.
A link to today's devotion: http://www.loyolapress.com/assets/Bookco
Monday, October 25, 2010
A prayer...
O Lord my God,
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.
--St. Anselm
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.
--St. Anselm
Sunday, October 24, 2010
It's Raining, It's Pouring...
I awoke this morning to witness the greyness and wind and rain that tumbled into this sleepy town. I squeezed my eyes closed and wished for clear blue skies and a rainbow...then opened one eye...then the other...but, alas, the grim grey clouds and angry winds and cold rain remained. My last hope: a rainbow...
At Mass today, the priest reflected on the readings of the day. He said that though parents are regularly 'poured out like a libation', they can rest in the knowledge that they will never run empty because God walks with them. God is the reason for parents' acts of love. Parents are a manifestation of God's love for children on Earth. Parents are the first angels children ever experience, caring for their every need. Parents love purely and wholly, without requiring that they be loved back.
As a parent myself, I am so thankful to know that, even in moments when I am so tired and hopeless and fearful and worried and doubtful, God is here to refill my spirit. I am so glad to have this rainbow.
At Mass today, the priest reflected on the readings of the day. He said that though parents are regularly 'poured out like a libation', they can rest in the knowledge that they will never run empty because God walks with them. God is the reason for parents' acts of love. Parents are a manifestation of God's love for children on Earth. Parents are the first angels children ever experience, caring for their every need. Parents love purely and wholly, without requiring that they be loved back.
As a parent myself, I am so thankful to know that, even in moments when I am so tired and hopeless and fearful and worried and doubtful, God is here to refill my spirit. I am so glad to have this rainbow.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
I need a tissue!!
Every 10-20 seconds, I get the call: "Mama, I need a tissue!!" The Little has a cold (compliments of her big bro). It is exhausting when she has a cold because she refuses to wipe her own runny nose. I understand needing help to blow her nose--she IS only two years old--but the wiping? Really??
I guess this is how God must feel about me some days. So many times I ask Him for assistance with something, praying for Him to swoop in and save the day. I know He is willing to help me with anything I ask; but I sometimes fail to realize that I don't really need God to do everything for me--I can at least do the little things!
I need to remember the lesson that "God helps those who help themselves!" I will attempt to focus on this a little more today...but, God, if you're listening right this second, I would be wholly obliged if You swooped in with the tissue right now...
I guess this is how God must feel about me some days. So many times I ask Him for assistance with something, praying for Him to swoop in and save the day. I know He is willing to help me with anything I ask; but I sometimes fail to realize that I don't really need God to do everything for me--I can at least do the little things!
I need to remember the lesson that "God helps those who help themselves!" I will attempt to focus on this a little more today...but, God, if you're listening right this second, I would be wholly obliged if You swooped in with the tissue right now...
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Questions worth asking...
I have been thinking for the past week or so about all of the unanswered questions people might have. Lives are spent looking for answers to big questions, trying to find our way in the world. Most people never have all the answers they seek. I am lucky to know that even though I may never have all of my questions answered, I will be just fine because I have faith in God who has my best interest at heart. Of course, even that knowledge does not quell the need to question, the need to seek answers. I have plenty of questions that I have been asking for awhile now. Here are just a few... (Please note that I have not yet found answers to most of these questions; if you have any ideas, please feel free to share!)
1. What are the needs I can fulfill? How can I fulfill them?
2. What can I do to make the world a better place?
3. Why do so many people suffer from medical emergencies/illnesses?
4. Why do people say God's presence is a mystery?
5. How is God present in my life?
6. How can I demonstrate Godliness to others?
7. Why is it so difficult to forgive?
8. How can I be more at peace in my life?
9. Why is life such hard work?
10. Why do I have so many unanswered questions? Will I ever have more answers than questions?
1. What are the needs I can fulfill? How can I fulfill them?
2. What can I do to make the world a better place?
3. Why do so many people suffer from medical emergencies/illnesses?
4. Why do people say God's presence is a mystery?
5. How is God present in my life?
6. How can I demonstrate Godliness to others?
7. Why is it so difficult to forgive?
8. How can I be more at peace in my life?
9. Why is life such hard work?
10. Why do I have so many unanswered questions? Will I ever have more answers than questions?
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Tuesday's child is full of grace...
Today is Tuesday. Another busy day for the Mehlhaff family...but I am inclined to reflect on the last few days, to give praise for the triumphs and to pray to resolve all the failures. I am struck by the idea of grace and the role it has played...
Some people think it's coffee that gets us through our days--admittedly, the glorious drink has dazzled me into thinking so on occasion! But if we stop to think about it just a little bit, it is clear what the real deal is: grace! Grace is always hot, never runs out, and never fails to stimulate us! Grace is the mark of God on one's heart, that allows us to enjoy triumphs and deal with failures. Grace is what strengthens us so that we might do great things, and fortifies us when greatness eludes us.
Grace is what we all need, and what I'm praying for most today...albeit with a cup o' joe in hand...
Amen.
Some people think it's coffee that gets us through our days--admittedly, the glorious drink has dazzled me into thinking so on occasion! But if we stop to think about it just a little bit, it is clear what the real deal is: grace! Grace is always hot, never runs out, and never fails to stimulate us! Grace is the mark of God on one's heart, that allows us to enjoy triumphs and deal with failures. Grace is what strengthens us so that we might do great things, and fortifies us when greatness eludes us.
Grace is what we all need, and what I'm praying for most today...albeit with a cup o' joe in hand...
Amen.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Friday Blog Entry? Check!
Only Robinson Crusoe had everything done by Friday. ~Author Unknown
I wish my list of things to do was as short as Crusoe's! It seems, though, that my list never ends. I get to check off things as I go, but the repetitive nature of some things disallows a fully checked list...ever. It can be very discouraging. I try to remember that all I do can be in God's honor...and that His list is the truly perpetual one. I pray that I can work through my list with more grace each day than the last...
Happy Friday!
E
I wish my list of things to do was as short as Crusoe's! It seems, though, that my list never ends. I get to check off things as I go, but the repetitive nature of some things disallows a fully checked list...ever. It can be very discouraging. I try to remember that all I do can be in God's honor...and that His list is the truly perpetual one. I pray that I can work through my list with more grace each day than the last...
Happy Friday!
E
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Lioness
Today I have been running around the house chasing toddler tornadoes and tidying toys of said toddler. I have been trying to explain up the street and down again the value of reading carefully. I have been teaching the alphabet. I have been driving to the grocery store, planning Halloween costumes, and driving to soccer practice. I have been cleaning up messes. I have been having story time and baking pizzas. I have been giving baths and wiping bottoms. I have been passing messages. I have been finishing dishwashing and making lunches......
Oh, wait.
Today I have been praying. I have been listening. I have been guiding. I have been teaching. I have been comforting. I have been encouraging. I have been cultivating spirit and character. I have been safe-keeping. I have been maintaining health. I have been helping. I have been problem-solving. I have been loving.
Wow. I am Mama...hear me ROAR...
(Thank you, God, for your blessings this day. Thank you for helping me to see my blessings clearly, that I might focus on the rewards rather than the sacrifices. Thank you for teaching me to love, that I might show love in all I do. Help me to do it better tomorrow than I did it today. And God Bless my Littles and their Daddy. Amen.)
Oh, wait.
Today I have been praying. I have been listening. I have been guiding. I have been teaching. I have been comforting. I have been encouraging. I have been cultivating spirit and character. I have been safe-keeping. I have been maintaining health. I have been helping. I have been problem-solving. I have been loving.
Wow. I am Mama...hear me ROAR...
(Thank you, God, for your blessings this day. Thank you for helping me to see my blessings clearly, that I might focus on the rewards rather than the sacrifices. Thank you for teaching me to love, that I might show love in all I do. Help me to do it better tomorrow than I did it today. And God Bless my Littles and their Daddy. Amen.)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Down Time
Somehow, Tuesday passed me by in a blur. What's the deal with that?? Losing days is NO FUN. The spouse you married in his/her prime has a few more gray hairs and lines of life experience across the brow. The children who were once the tiniest of babies have grown into toddlers, tweens, and teens. I wish, sometimes, they'd stay little forever. I find myself wishing on a regular basis for more time...
Time management is tricky at my house. We stay extremely busy. Aside from homeschooling hurdles with my toddler in tow--not a particularly graceful image--there is soccer, Scouts, church, CCD, Catholic youth group, Christian youth group, academic clubs, and volunteering to be worked into every week--on top of homework, exploring the local area, regular outside play, etc! Call me crazy; but sometimes I think we need to work in more things--I most recently have been racking my brain to figure out how to work in toddler ballet classes (or "dancing school" as my Little calls it).
Most people take time for granted. Most people want to fill every minute of every day with some event or activity. Most people forget all about DOWN TIME. When I start thinking about our family schedule, I count myself as one of them. But today being Wednesday--"hump day" as it were--I find myself dreaming of down time. I know that by the weekend, I will have all of my days filled; but right now it is nice to envision lazy days with a sprinkling of spontaneous fun moments...
Down time is so valuable. A little rest and relaxation can help us to settle our souls and experience peace; we almost always feel refreshed afterwards. It is a pity that most of us don't take advantage of it more often. My prayer today is that I can say "no" to things that will not enrich my life as much as a little down time; that I can to use my down time to more fully experience the lazy days, spontaneity, and fun with my family; and that I can witness the growth and change of my family so that it is not a blur in my mind, but rather an embellishment of my heart.
Amen.
Time management is tricky at my house. We stay extremely busy. Aside from homeschooling hurdles with my toddler in tow--not a particularly graceful image--there is soccer, Scouts, church, CCD, Catholic youth group, Christian youth group, academic clubs, and volunteering to be worked into every week--on top of homework, exploring the local area, regular outside play, etc! Call me crazy; but sometimes I think we need to work in more things--I most recently have been racking my brain to figure out how to work in toddler ballet classes (or "dancing school" as my Little calls it).
Most people take time for granted. Most people want to fill every minute of every day with some event or activity. Most people forget all about DOWN TIME. When I start thinking about our family schedule, I count myself as one of them. But today being Wednesday--"hump day" as it were--I find myself dreaming of down time. I know that by the weekend, I will have all of my days filled; but right now it is nice to envision lazy days with a sprinkling of spontaneous fun moments...
Down time is so valuable. A little rest and relaxation can help us to settle our souls and experience peace; we almost always feel refreshed afterwards. It is a pity that most of us don't take advantage of it more often. My prayer today is that I can say "no" to things that will not enrich my life as much as a little down time; that I can to use my down time to more fully experience the lazy days, spontaneity, and fun with my family; and that I can witness the growth and change of my family so that it is not a blur in my mind, but rather an embellishment of my heart.
Amen.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Baby Steps...
We are trying to build more respect and trust into our relationships. We are praying more, being more thoughtful and aware of our words and actions, and praising and thanking each other as our day unfolds. We are making every effort to have more peace in our own hearts, so there is more peace in our home. We are striving to be more loving towards one another in even the smallest things. Thank goodness, thank God for baby steps on this Monday...
E
E
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Can You Hear Me Now??
Sometimes the voice of God is more difficult to hear than we'd like. Like a cell phone in a dead zone, we are often left out of range for one reason or another. Sometimes, we end up in places with better reception than others; but we lose the signal shortly after we get His call. Sometimes, our attention is diverted by the catchy ring tone of His competition. But more often than not, the signal is strong enough for us to hear God's call, if we have the courage to answer it...
If you go to church regularly, you no doubt are aware of God's call for His people to serve Him by serving others. Some people answer the call by volunteering in their church, or in their community. Some people work in a service-oriented field, from teaching to nursing to the military, etc. Some people serve within their immediate families, by way of their daily activities and accomplishments.
But there is more to answering the call than just the basic act of service. One must remember to serve as Jesus did, without regard for social status, health risks, or recompense. One must remember to serve with an open heart and mind, ever aware of the reason behind the action. One must remember that to truly serve is to LOVE.
God is calling all of us. He is shouting, "Can you hear me now??" Hopefully you are in range of His call, and can wholeheartedly answer with a resounding, "YES!"
If you go to church regularly, you no doubt are aware of God's call for His people to serve Him by serving others. Some people answer the call by volunteering in their church, or in their community. Some people work in a service-oriented field, from teaching to nursing to the military, etc. Some people serve within their immediate families, by way of their daily activities and accomplishments.
But there is more to answering the call than just the basic act of service. One must remember to serve as Jesus did, without regard for social status, health risks, or recompense. One must remember to serve with an open heart and mind, ever aware of the reason behind the action. One must remember that to truly serve is to LOVE.
God is calling all of us. He is shouting, "Can you hear me now??" Hopefully you are in range of His call, and can wholeheartedly answer with a resounding, "YES!"
Friday, October 1, 2010
TGIF!
Today is a new day. Thank God this new day is Friday! I think that God is so awesome to have thought through this whole calendar idea. It took us humans waaaaaay too long to figure out the best way to organize the time God has given to us on Earth, but I am glad we finally did.
Starting the week with Sunday makes so much sense to me. Right then, one can hand the whole week to God and just tag along with Him for seven days. How cool is that??
God is used to doing all of the 'heavy lifting'; Mondays go by with ease because of this! It's like He takes the stairs so there is room for the rest of us in the elevator.
On Tuesdays, we can join forces with Him while plodding through the day. He works in the other time zones around the world, so it only makes sense that we take up the slack on this day.
Wednesday is the day people seem to dislike the most; people forget to ask God for help. We regularly have to wait for God to respond because He is busy cleaning up after the Big Bad Serpent, while keeping Mother Nature in check, and checking His messages (prayers of intercession to the Saints and Mary).
Thursday rolls around to remind folks that God has not forgotten us; and we are bolstered by the fact that He is leading us to the weekend, right around the corner! Yes!!
And then Friday shows up, the day people begin to organize their time around family and friends. People start to relax a little and look forward to getting in some rest after a long week.
Saturday is like God's little bonus for us all--another chunk of time to spend with family and friends, or just on our own. It can be a fun and rejuvenating day.
And then the week begins again...Sunday...a day for thanking God for allowing us to get through one week and to start another, hand in hand with Him...
TGIF, and have a fantastic weekend...
Erika
Starting the week with Sunday makes so much sense to me. Right then, one can hand the whole week to God and just tag along with Him for seven days. How cool is that??
God is used to doing all of the 'heavy lifting'; Mondays go by with ease because of this! It's like He takes the stairs so there is room for the rest of us in the elevator.
On Tuesdays, we can join forces with Him while plodding through the day. He works in the other time zones around the world, so it only makes sense that we take up the slack on this day.
Wednesday is the day people seem to dislike the most; people forget to ask God for help. We regularly have to wait for God to respond because He is busy cleaning up after the Big Bad Serpent, while keeping Mother Nature in check, and checking His messages (prayers of intercession to the Saints and Mary).
Thursday rolls around to remind folks that God has not forgotten us; and we are bolstered by the fact that He is leading us to the weekend, right around the corner! Yes!!
And then Friday shows up, the day people begin to organize their time around family and friends. People start to relax a little and look forward to getting in some rest after a long week.
Saturday is like God's little bonus for us all--another chunk of time to spend with family and friends, or just on our own. It can be a fun and rejuvenating day.
And then the week begins again...Sunday...a day for thanking God for allowing us to get through one week and to start another, hand in hand with Him...
TGIF, and have a fantastic weekend...
Erika
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Little Hands...
My children are very well-behaved in church. When we attend Mass, inevitably someone comments about it as we finish the recessional hymn and begin filtering out of the church. Most people would beam with pride, but I have to concentrate on the beaming. Why? The truth is that it took me eons to actually 'get it'. "I expect good behavior," I would think when someone would smile and pass along a compliment. I mean, I always have known that there are children who misbehave in church; it is like they think the hush during the Mass is their cue to put on a show. But I always figured they simply felt obliged because that is what their parents expect of them. After a quizzical look from me, parishoners would fumble a bit and ask, "Well, how can I get my [son/daughter/grandchild, neighbor's kid] to just sit and be quiet like yours do?" or something similar. No clue.
This happened so many times that I finally had to analyze it directly--at least so the puzzlement would be wiped from my face and replaced by a polite smile and a shrug of modesty...
Now, don't get me wrong: my children definitely aren't always angels, even if they ARE in God's house! They have their ups and downs and silly moments like all kiddos do. Sometimes I feel as though I am shushing them repeatedly or reminding them constantly to actually pray and pay attention in Mass. However, as I began observing the parishoners around me more and more, I noticed a couple of things of real interest. First, I noticed how few children (that is, people under the age of 16) actually attend Mass. Secondly, I noticed a fairly crowded 'cry room' on a pretty regular basis. Those things helped me to realize that the compliments come from people who have seen mostly ill-behaved children, or none at all in the main church. And it finally became clear how I should answer the question of how to get children to behave during Mass. There are a few things that make it possible for my family; it isn't always easy or fool-proof, but it's what we do......
1. First of all, it is important to realize that until your children make their First Communion (for Catholics anyways), YOUR actual time spent paying close attention during Mass will be limited-to-nonexistent; you'll have to check out the readings and such ahead of time. (That is actually helpful when the older children need help understanding some things during Mass, too.)
2. Second, I vehemently oppose cry rooms. DO NOT use the cry rooms if at all possible!! They should be reserved for parents of infants--if there is an older sibling, it is time to move to the main sanctuary--because toddlers learn that parents expect them to be loud/play and they see no reason to disappoint. It becomes a habit that is difficult to break later. (Note that I NEVER have used cry rooms, even when my children were infants; I would just step outside the sanctuary if necessary back then.)
3. EXPECTATIONS are key! Expect quiet during toddler years; attentiveness to parent-guided prayer/quiet discussion at preschool age; and personal prayer and reflection at older ages, as designated by your church doctrine or family values.
4. Whisper to your Littles about the statues/pictures/church furnishings/etc., and try to explain in 'little people terms' the rituals of the Mass as they are happening. Repeat to them the importance of honoring and respecting the prayer time of those around you. Other worshippers appreciate your efforts, and kindly deal with the whispers because you are engaging the kiddos and teaching them.
5. Be sure to help your children participate in the Mass as much as possible. If there is sharing of the peace, encourage them to shake hands with other parishoners; take them with you to receive Communion--they can either simply watch the action, or get a blessing themselves (which they LOVE)!
6. Praise adherence to your expectations, esp. in front of others.
7. Make sure the youngest among you have faith-related books or toys to help keep them occupied during the grown-up parts of the church celebration, just in case. (My Little loves having her own books, Jesus/Noah/Daniel 'action figures,' and Bible story coloring pages!)
8. Leave the sanctuary only if ABSOLUTELY necessary (e.g. potty training toddlers, shrieking that requires firmer redirection than can be given in mixed company, spontaneous combustion of anyone or anything outside of a burning bush...). God will understand.
Seems like a lot in theory, but it is easier in practice than you might think!! That said, I will leave you with the following poem I wrote, having been inspired by my own Little during Mass this past Sunday...
This happened so many times that I finally had to analyze it directly--at least so the puzzlement would be wiped from my face and replaced by a polite smile and a shrug of modesty...
Now, don't get me wrong: my children definitely aren't always angels, even if they ARE in God's house! They have their ups and downs and silly moments like all kiddos do. Sometimes I feel as though I am shushing them repeatedly or reminding them constantly to actually pray and pay attention in Mass. However, as I began observing the parishoners around me more and more, I noticed a couple of things of real interest. First, I noticed how few children (that is, people under the age of 16) actually attend Mass. Secondly, I noticed a fairly crowded 'cry room' on a pretty regular basis. Those things helped me to realize that the compliments come from people who have seen mostly ill-behaved children, or none at all in the main church. And it finally became clear how I should answer the question of how to get children to behave during Mass. There are a few things that make it possible for my family; it isn't always easy or fool-proof, but it's what we do......
1. First of all, it is important to realize that until your children make their First Communion (for Catholics anyways), YOUR actual time spent paying close attention during Mass will be limited-to-nonexistent; you'll have to check out the readings and such ahead of time. (That is actually helpful when the older children need help understanding some things during Mass, too.)
2. Second, I vehemently oppose cry rooms. DO NOT use the cry rooms if at all possible!! They should be reserved for parents of infants--if there is an older sibling, it is time to move to the main sanctuary--because toddlers learn that parents expect them to be loud/play and they see no reason to disappoint. It becomes a habit that is difficult to break later. (Note that I NEVER have used cry rooms, even when my children were infants; I would just step outside the sanctuary if necessary back then.)
3. EXPECTATIONS are key! Expect quiet during toddler years; attentiveness to parent-guided prayer/quiet discussion at preschool age; and personal prayer and reflection at older ages, as designated by your church doctrine or family values.
4. Whisper to your Littles about the statues/pictures/church furnishings/etc., and try to explain in 'little people terms' the rituals of the Mass as they are happening. Repeat to them the importance of honoring and respecting the prayer time of those around you. Other worshippers appreciate your efforts, and kindly deal with the whispers because you are engaging the kiddos and teaching them.
5. Be sure to help your children participate in the Mass as much as possible. If there is sharing of the peace, encourage them to shake hands with other parishoners; take them with you to receive Communion--they can either simply watch the action, or get a blessing themselves (which they LOVE)!
6. Praise adherence to your expectations, esp. in front of others.
7. Make sure the youngest among you have faith-related books or toys to help keep them occupied during the grown-up parts of the church celebration, just in case. (My Little loves having her own books, Jesus/Noah/Daniel 'action figures,' and Bible story coloring pages!)
8. Leave the sanctuary only if ABSOLUTELY necessary (e.g. potty training toddlers, shrieking that requires firmer redirection than can be given in mixed company, spontaneous combustion of anyone or anything outside of a burning bush...). God will understand.
Seems like a lot in theory, but it is easier in practice than you might think!! That said, I will leave you with the following poem I wrote, having been inspired by my own Little during Mass this past Sunday...
Little Hands
Her Little hands, folded just so,
Point up to Heaven so He’ll know
That she is thinking thoughts of Him:
Jesus, who saved all from sin.
She walks in quiet steps to see
The priest who leads our praise of He
Who keeps us safe and guides us so
That His boundless love we’ll know.
Her Little voice echoes a prayer
To Jesus who is always there;
The sweetness in her words rings true,
As Little prayers always do.
She smiles, knowing she is blessed
By God above, whose heaven-sent
Son, Jesus, lives inside her heart,
As He has done right from the start.
To AGM with love from Mama
28 Sept. 2010
What's the Word? A funny thing happened on the way to the blogosphere...
The word is there's a new member in the blogosphere...the word is it's yours truly...
You might be asking why I decided to start blogging. Well, it turns out that my Facebook page started to take on a more religious bent than I really intended, which got me thinking. "What if," I thought to myself, "I started a blog for all of my religious/faith-related banter, instead of subjecting all of my dear Facebook friends to it?" I asked this of myself after realizing that while my postings of that nature were helpful to me, they weren't necessarily serving the same purpose for those on my friends list who mainly use Facebook for life updates and recreation. So...here I am...
Of course, once I decided to take on this daunting process, I was stumped as to what to title my blog. So, here's the funny story that goes with the title--which is funnier than it might seem right now...
I decided that in order to come up with a good blog title, I needed inspiration. Who better to ask for assistance than one of the funniest people I know: my sister!! So I called her, out of the blue, in the middle of the day. "Hellooooooo!" she said, as though she had been waiting for my call all the while. "Hi," I said. "So, I have a question. Well, actually, I just need you to tell me the first thing you think of, the first thing that comes to mind, when I say a certain word." She seemed curious. She said, "Uhhhh...ok...but just a word, or what?" "Well, it doesn't have to be just one word; it could be a phrase or sentence or a whole treatise on whatever you like! Just go with it!" "Ooookay," she said with a chuckle. "So, what's the word?"
You might think that is where the blog title jumped out at me; but you'd be wrong. The conversation continued...
"Jesus," I said. "Christ," she said. "That wasn't exactly what I was hoping for," I told her. Then I explained why I was asking. From that moment, we reminisced about old inside jokes and childhood memories, and dissolved into laughter about all of the obvious and hilarious things suitable for the title of my blog. "Word association!"..."Word up!"..."Word to your mom!"...
I am so glad I decided to call my sister...and now it's time for a dance break: RUNNING MAN FOR JESUS! (You are loved, D. ...)
You might be asking why I decided to start blogging. Well, it turns out that my Facebook page started to take on a more religious bent than I really intended, which got me thinking. "What if," I thought to myself, "I started a blog for all of my religious/faith-related banter, instead of subjecting all of my dear Facebook friends to it?" I asked this of myself after realizing that while my postings of that nature were helpful to me, they weren't necessarily serving the same purpose for those on my friends list who mainly use Facebook for life updates and recreation. So...here I am...
Of course, once I decided to take on this daunting process, I was stumped as to what to title my blog. So, here's the funny story that goes with the title--which is funnier than it might seem right now...
I decided that in order to come up with a good blog title, I needed inspiration. Who better to ask for assistance than one of the funniest people I know: my sister!! So I called her, out of the blue, in the middle of the day. "Hellooooooo!" she said, as though she had been waiting for my call all the while. "Hi," I said. "So, I have a question. Well, actually, I just need you to tell me the first thing you think of, the first thing that comes to mind, when I say a certain word." She seemed curious. She said, "Uhhhh...ok...but just a word, or what?" "Well, it doesn't have to be just one word; it could be a phrase or sentence or a whole treatise on whatever you like! Just go with it!" "Ooookay," she said with a chuckle. "So, what's the word?"
You might think that is where the blog title jumped out at me; but you'd be wrong. The conversation continued...
"Jesus," I said. "Christ," she said. "That wasn't exactly what I was hoping for," I told her. Then I explained why I was asking. From that moment, we reminisced about old inside jokes and childhood memories, and dissolved into laughter about all of the obvious and hilarious things suitable for the title of my blog. "Word association!"..."Word up!"..."Word to your mom!"...
I am so glad I decided to call my sister...and now it's time for a dance break: RUNNING MAN FOR JESUS! (You are loved, D. ...)
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