The Twelfth Chapter
Acquiring Patience in the Fight Against Concupiscence
The Disciple
PATIENCE, O Lord God, is very necessary for me, I see, because there are many adversities in this life. No matter what plans I make for my own peace, my life cannot be free from struggle and sorrow. (even tempting left over cheese cake, cranky kids, and a post Thanksgiving messy house)
The Voice of Christ
My child, you are right, yet My wish is not that you seek that peace which is free from temptations or meets with no opposition, but rather that you consider yourself as having found peace when you have been tormented with many tribulations and tried with many adversities.
If you say that you cannot suffer much, how will you endure the fire of purgatory? Of two evils, the lesser is always to be chosen. Therefore, in order that you may escape the everlasting punishments to come, try to bear present evils patiently for the sake of God.
Oh Lord how I beg for forgiveness during this time of Thanksgiving to you for all you have given our family. I am sorry for the whining I have done, the lack of compassion I have shown to others, the gluttony I have encountered, and for all that displeases you. Please see the desires in my heart to love and serve you all the days of my life!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Eleventh Chapter
The Longings of our Hearts Must Be Examined And Moderated
The Voice of Christ
MY CHILD, it is necessary for you to learn many things which you have not yet learned well.
The Disciple
What are they, Lord?
The Voice of Christ
That you conform your desires entirely according to My good pleasure, and be not a lover of self but an earnest doer of My will. Desires very often inflame you and drive you madly on, but consider whether you act for My honor, or for your own advantage. If I am the cause, you will be well content with whatever I ordain. If, on the other hand, any self-seeking lurk in you, it troubles you and weighs you down. Take care, then, that you do not rely too much on preconceived desire that has no reference to Me, lest you repent later on and be displeased with what at first pleased you and which you desired as being for the best. Not every desire which seems good should be followed immediately, nor, on the other hand, should every contrary affection be at once rejected.
It is sometimes well to use a little restraint even in good desires and inclinations, lest through too much eagerness you bring upon yourself distraction of mind; lest through your lack of discipline you create scandal for others; or lest you be suddenly upset and fall because of resistance from others. Sometimes, however, you must use violence and resist your sensual appetite bravely. You must pay no attention to what the flesh does or does not desire, taking pains that it be subjected, even by force, to the spirit. And it should be chastised and forced to remain in subjection until it is prepared for anything and is taught to be satisfied with little (Christmas is coming kids...), to take pleasure in simple things(simplicity is so important), and not to murmur against inconveniences.(grocery shopping, driving, Christmas shopping crowds...)
I will be concentrating on resist your sensual appetite especially during Thanksgiving.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
The Longings of our Hearts Must Be Examined And Moderated
The Voice of Christ
MY CHILD, it is necessary for you to learn many things which you have not yet learned well.
The Disciple
What are they, Lord?
The Voice of Christ
That you conform your desires entirely according to My good pleasure, and be not a lover of self but an earnest doer of My will. Desires very often inflame you and drive you madly on, but consider whether you act for My honor, or for your own advantage. If I am the cause, you will be well content with whatever I ordain. If, on the other hand, any self-seeking lurk in you, it troubles you and weighs you down. Take care, then, that you do not rely too much on preconceived desire that has no reference to Me, lest you repent later on and be displeased with what at first pleased you and which you desired as being for the best. Not every desire which seems good should be followed immediately, nor, on the other hand, should every contrary affection be at once rejected.
It is sometimes well to use a little restraint even in good desires and inclinations, lest through too much eagerness you bring upon yourself distraction of mind; lest through your lack of discipline you create scandal for others; or lest you be suddenly upset and fall because of resistance from others. Sometimes, however, you must use violence and resist your sensual appetite bravely. You must pay no attention to what the flesh does or does not desire, taking pains that it be subjected, even by force, to the spirit. And it should be chastised and forced to remain in subjection until it is prepared for anything and is taught to be satisfied with little (Christmas is coming kids...), to take pleasure in simple things(simplicity is so important), and not to murmur against inconveniences.(grocery shopping, driving, Christmas shopping crowds...)
I will be concentrating on resist your sensual appetite especially during Thanksgiving.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Monday, November 24, 2008
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
What return shall I make for all these thousands of benefits? Would that I could serve You all the days of my life! Would that for but one day I could serve You worthily! Truly You are worthy of all service, all honor, and everlasting praise. Truly You are my Lord, and I am Your poor servant, bound to serve You with all my powers, praising You without ever becoming weary. I wish to do this—this is my desire. Do You supply whatever is wanting in me.
It is a great honor, a great glory to serve You and to despise all things for Your sake. They who give themselves gladly to Your most holy service will possess great grace. They who cast aside all carnal delights for Your love will find the most sweet consolation of the Holy Ghost. They who enter upon the narrow way for Your name and cast aside all worldly care will attain great freedom of mind.
O sweet and joyful service of God, which makes man truly free and holy! O sacred state of religious bondage which makes man equal to the angels, pleasing to God, terrible to the demons, and worthy of the commendation of all the faithful! O service to be embraced and always desired, in which the highest good is offered and joy is won which shall remain forever!
Praising You without ever becoming weary...THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
It is a great honor, a great glory to serve You and to despise all things for Your sake. They who give themselves gladly to Your most holy service will possess great grace. They who cast aside all carnal delights for Your love will find the most sweet consolation of the Holy Ghost. They who enter upon the narrow way for Your name and cast aside all worldly care will attain great freedom of mind.
O sweet and joyful service of God, which makes man truly free and holy! O sacred state of religious bondage which makes man equal to the angels, pleasing to God, terrible to the demons, and worthy of the commendation of all the faithful! O service to be embraced and always desired, in which the highest good is offered and joy is won which shall remain forever!
Praising You without ever becoming weary...THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
update on my hubby's race:
He is amazing and was probably too prepared to run that silly race...boy trail running is a totally different animal!!!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Pray for my hubby...
We are at his JFK 50 Mile race...yes,A 50 mile long, cold,windy, crazy race!!! I have pictures already...but no cord to connect here at my sisters house...but you will see soon enough how crazy some people are!!! Please pray for him!!! He texted at 11:10 to say he was at mile 21...just heard from "the Donk" who met Rob at mile 27 and said he looks great (as usual), but it was cold and windy!!! Bone cold!!! He is running a 12 min mile and started at 7:01am...so we will hopefully see him at the finish line at 5pm.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Home births
From Danielle Bean at Faith and Family Live: "So how about you? Have you ever given birth at home? Would you consider it?"
Yes I have!!! Out of my 11 children 9 were born at home. The first in the hospital because everyone thought I was crazy to deliver at home. After my not so bad experience, I decided hospitals weren’t for me...I am sure the hospital staff agreed that they didn’t want me to come back. TO demanding...To concerned...To picky!!!So the next seven were born at home...healthy and happy!!! When I had my ninth, the insurance would not pay for home birth, just birthing center...bummer!!!So she was born there. It was ok, but not my bed and my house...the next one we got to have at home-because the insurance people made the mistake of saying “in print” that I could have a home birth. Then we couldn’t have #11 at home, again due to insurance. I would love to have more home births. It is not for every family and my certified birth midwives interview each client to make sure they are ready and really know what they are getting into.
God bless!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Yes I have!!! Out of my 11 children 9 were born at home. The first in the hospital because everyone thought I was crazy to deliver at home. After my not so bad experience, I decided hospitals weren’t for me...I am sure the hospital staff agreed that they didn’t want me to come back. TO demanding...To concerned...To picky!!!So the next seven were born at home...healthy and happy!!! When I had my ninth, the insurance would not pay for home birth, just birthing center...bummer!!!So she was born there. It was ok, but not my bed and my house...the next one we got to have at home-because the insurance people made the mistake of saying “in print” that I could have a home birth. Then we couldn’t have #11 at home, again due to insurance. I would love to have more home births. It is not for every family and my certified birth midwives interview each client to make sure they are ready and really know what they are getting into.
God bless!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Meditation of the day...IMITATION OF CHRIST...
The Tenth Chapter
To Despise the World and Serve God is Sweet
The Disciple(PART two)
O Fountain of unceasing love, what shall I say of You? How can I forget You, Who have been pleased to remember me even after I had wasted away and perished? You have shown mercy to Your servant beyond all hope, and have exhibited grace and friendship beyond his deserving.
What return shall I make to You for this grace? For it is not given every man to forsake all things, to renounce the world, and undertake the religious life. Is it anything great that I should serve You Whom every creature is bound to serve? It should not seem much to me; instead it should appear great and wonderful that You condescend to receive into Your service one who is so poor and unworthy. Behold, all things are Yours, even those which I have and by which I serve You. Behold, heaven and earth which You created for the service of man, stand ready, and each day they do whatever You command. But even this is little, for You have appointed angels also to minister to man—yea more than all this—You Yourself have condescended to serve man and have promised to give him Yourself.
What return shall I make to You for this grace? To do your holy will and try to listen to YOUR HOLY SPIRIT during the day. I love you Lord, please help me to be strong against temptation and call on your graces during the day.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
To Despise the World and Serve God is Sweet
The Disciple(PART two)
O Fountain of unceasing love, what shall I say of You? How can I forget You, Who have been pleased to remember me even after I had wasted away and perished? You have shown mercy to Your servant beyond all hope, and have exhibited grace and friendship beyond his deserving.
What return shall I make to You for this grace? For it is not given every man to forsake all things, to renounce the world, and undertake the religious life. Is it anything great that I should serve You Whom every creature is bound to serve? It should not seem much to me; instead it should appear great and wonderful that You condescend to receive into Your service one who is so poor and unworthy. Behold, all things are Yours, even those which I have and by which I serve You. Behold, heaven and earth which You created for the service of man, stand ready, and each day they do whatever You command. But even this is little, for You have appointed angels also to minister to man—yea more than all this—You Yourself have condescended to serve man and have promised to give him Yourself.
What return shall I make to You for this grace? To do your holy will and try to listen to YOUR HOLY SPIRIT during the day. I love you Lord, please help me to be strong against temptation and call on your graces during the day.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Tenth Chapter
To Despise the World and Serve God is Sweet
The Disciple(PART ONE)
NOW again I will speak, Lord, and will not be silent. I will speak to the hearing of my God, my Lord, and my King Who is in heaven. How great, O Lord, is the multitude of Your mercies which You have stored up for those who love You. But what are You to those who love You? What are You to those who serve You with their whole heart?
Truly beyond the power of words is the sweetness of contemplation You give to those who love You. To me You have shown the sweetness of Your charity, especially in having made me when I did not exist, in having brought me back to serve You when I had gone far astray from You, in having commanded me to love You.
Lord I know you know the love I have for you in my heart. I have no problem not being silent...help me to better LISTEN to you and do your will!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
To Despise the World and Serve God is Sweet
The Disciple(PART ONE)
NOW again I will speak, Lord, and will not be silent. I will speak to the hearing of my God, my Lord, and my King Who is in heaven. How great, O Lord, is the multitude of Your mercies which You have stored up for those who love You. But what are You to those who love You? What are You to those who serve You with their whole heart?
Truly beyond the power of words is the sweetness of contemplation You give to those who love You. To me You have shown the sweetness of Your charity, especially in having made me when I did not exist, in having brought me back to serve You when I had gone far astray from You, in having commanded me to love You.
Lord I know you know the love I have for you in my heart. I have no problem not being silent...help me to better LISTEN to you and do your will!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Monday, November 17, 2008
CRAZY WEEKEND:
It looks like my husband found my schedule and posted it....I would never let you know what really goes on in this house...it may hinder someone from having another baby. (my worst nightmare!!!)
On a positive note: I met a woman at a soccer party on Saturday who showed me her new baby...then had the kindness to let me know that after she held my baby last year at a mother/daughter cookie exchange she felt the need to have another!!! Now that is what I call a compliment!!! I asked her if I could hold her baby...maybe I too would be holding a new baby next year???
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
On a positive note: I met a woman at a soccer party on Saturday who showed me her new baby...then had the kindness to let me know that after she held my baby last year at a mother/daughter cookie exchange she felt the need to have another!!! Now that is what I call a compliment!!! I asked her if I could hold her baby...maybe I too would be holding a new baby next year???
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Saturday, November 15, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROB!!!
IRON MAN...
ALEX AND JOSHUA
WHEN OUR BIG KIDS WERE LITTLE...
THE DONK!!! BFF...
WHERE'S BABY E???
I LOVE YOU!!!
FATHER SON WEEKEND!!!
WHOSE THE DORK?
PROOF THAT I WAS ABOUT TO DELIVER AN ELEVEN POUND BABY BOY!!!
SUPER DAD!!!
WHEN OUR BIG KIDS WERE LITTLE...
THE DONK!!! BFF...
WHERE'S BABY E???
I LOVE YOU!!!
FATHER SON WEEKEND!!!
WHOSE THE DORK?
PROOF THAT I WAS ABOUT TO DELIVER AN ELEVEN POUND BABY BOY!!!
SUPER DAD!!!To my dearest soul mate...how do I top the BIRTHDAY BLOG KING of the world who can make a slug feel loved??? You are so great at Birthday Posts that I just can't top them!!!
You have been my sweetheart since I was 16 and I am so glad I married you!!! You are so amazing and giving to me. I am blessed that you too want a big family...that you share my faith...that you support my homeschooling...and don't criticize me for my humble house keeping!!!
I can't wait to grow old with you!!!
Thank you and Happy Birthday to my Iron Man!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Happy Birthday Little Puppet
I love you!!! You make me smile...you are my smile in the morning and the one to make me laugh!!! Thank you for being my buddy and a great big brother!!! I am so proud of you and all your reading!!!
INTERNET SAFETY
I have been praying and working all week to prepare for this Sunday when we have our town wide Internet Safety Meeting. I even got a plug in our local town paper as well as Catholic Standard. PLEASE PRAY FOR THOSE ATTENDING AND A SUCCESSFUL EVENT...but, most importantly for wisdom and protection of our families from the many dangers the Internet introduces!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+
THY WILL BE DONE!!! +JMJ+
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Happy Feast of St. Martin of tours
St. Martin of tours is one of my boys favorites...I have taught my kids the difference between him and another favorite St.Martin de Porres this way"...remember martin de tours=tour his cloak and St Martin de Porres=helped the poor..." Whatever works!!!
Why Blog?
This morning as I was reading one of my favorite blogs my 9 year old said, "why do people have mothers?...oops, I mean blogs?"
As we both smirked and laughed...I said, "so we can talk about how great our kids are and do this...".
As we both smirked and laughed...I said, "so we can talk about how great our kids are and do this...".
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Ninth Chapter
All Things should be Referred to God as their Last End
The Voice of Christ (part two)
From Me the small and the great, the poor and the rich draw the water of life as from a living fountain, and they who serve Me willingly and freely shall receive grace upon grace. He who wishes to glory in things apart from Me, however, or to delight in some good as his own, shall not be grounded in true joy or gladdened in his heart, but shall be burdened and distressed in many ways. Hence you ought not to attribute any good to yourself or ascribe virtue to any man, but give all to God without Whom man has nothing.
I have given all things. I will that all be returned to Me again, and I exact most strictly a return of thanks. This is the truth by which vainglory is put to flight.
Where heavenly grace and true charity enter in, there neither envy nor narrowness of heart nor self-love will have place. Divine love conquers all and enlarges the powers of the soul.
If you are truly wise, you will rejoice only in Me, because no one is good except God alone, Who is to be praised above all things and above all to be blessed.
***Divine love conquers all and enlarges the powers of the soul. Oh yea...now I remember!!!
All Things should be Referred to God as their Last End
The Voice of Christ (part two)
From Me the small and the great, the poor and the rich draw the water of life as from a living fountain, and they who serve Me willingly and freely shall receive grace upon grace. He who wishes to glory in things apart from Me, however, or to delight in some good as his own, shall not be grounded in true joy or gladdened in his heart, but shall be burdened and distressed in many ways. Hence you ought not to attribute any good to yourself or ascribe virtue to any man, but give all to God without Whom man has nothing.
I have given all things. I will that all be returned to Me again, and I exact most strictly a return of thanks. This is the truth by which vainglory is put to flight.
Where heavenly grace and true charity enter in, there neither envy nor narrowness of heart nor self-love will have place. Divine love conquers all and enlarges the powers of the soul.
If you are truly wise, you will rejoice only in Me, because no one is good except God alone, Who is to be praised above all things and above all to be blessed.
***Divine love conquers all and enlarges the powers of the soul. Oh yea...now I remember!!!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Hope:
"Do not lose your inward peace for anything whatsoever,
even if your whole world seems upset. Commend all to God,
and then lie still and be at rest in God's bosom...
Whatever happens, abide steadfast in a determination to cling simply to God; trusting to God's eternal love for you."
St. Francis de Sales
even if your whole world seems upset. Commend all to God,
and then lie still and be at rest in God's bosom...
Whatever happens, abide steadfast in a determination to cling simply to God; trusting to God's eternal love for you."
St. Francis de Sales
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Ninth Chapter
All Things should be Referred to God as their Last End
The Voice of Christ
MY CHILD, I must be your supreme and last end, if you truly desire to be blessed. With this intention your affections, which are too often perversely inclined to self and to creatures, will be purified. For if you seek yourself in anything, you immediately fail interiorly and become dry of heart.
Refer all things principally to Me, therefore, for it is I Who have given them all. Consider each thing as flowing from the highest good, and therefore to Me, as to their highest source, must all things be brought back.
I need to remember when people complement or praise me... that all glory goes to God!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
All Things should be Referred to God as their Last End
The Voice of Christ
MY CHILD, I must be your supreme and last end, if you truly desire to be blessed. With this intention your affections, which are too often perversely inclined to self and to creatures, will be purified. For if you seek yourself in anything, you immediately fail interiorly and become dry of heart.
Refer all things principally to Me, therefore, for it is I Who have given them all. Consider each thing as flowing from the highest good, and therefore to Me, as to their highest source, must all things be brought back.
I need to remember when people complement or praise me... that all glory goes to God!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Friday, November 7, 2008
Today's gospel reading
JUST THE LAST VERSE:
For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than the children of light...Gospel Lk 16:8
hmmm...never really got this...OK LORD...help me to be prudent!!!
Message from my friend Cheryl:
That's how I felt... so I watched the USCCB video reflection for today...and Father Friedman said (and I'm paraphrasing) that the dishonest steward (child of the world) went through a lot of trouble to get out of his mess... and the "children of light" would do well to exercise a kind of prudence that is as dedicated (while being honest) as the children of the world often demonstrate... The steward's dedication is a quality which, when turned to the service of the kingdom, is often lacking among us within the church...Thanks for your insight Cheryl!!!
For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than the children of light...Gospel Lk 16:8
hmmm...never really got this...OK LORD...help me to be prudent!!!
Message from my friend Cheryl:
That's how I felt... so I watched the USCCB video reflection for today...and Father Friedman said (and I'm paraphrasing) that the dishonest steward (child of the world) went through a lot of trouble to get out of his mess... and the "children of light" would do well to exercise a kind of prudence that is as dedicated (while being honest) as the children of the world often demonstrate... The steward's dedication is a quality which, when turned to the service of the kingdom, is often lacking among us within the church...Thanks for your insight Cheryl!!!
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Eighth Chapter
Self-Abasement in the Sight of God
The Disciple (part two)
It is Your love that does this, graciously upholding me, supporting me in so many necessities, guarding me from so many grave dangers, and snatching me, as I may truly say, from evils without number. Indeed, by loving myself badly I lost myself; by seeking only You and by truly loving You I have found both myself and You, and by that love I have reduced myself more profoundly to nothing. For You, O sweetest Lord, deal with me above all my merits and above all that I dare to hope or ask.
May You be blessed, my God, for although I am unworthy of any benefits, yet Your nobility and infinite goodness never cease to do good even for those who are ungrateful and far from You. Convert us to You, that we may be thankful, humble, and devout, for You are our salvation, our courage, and our strength. (especially for our country under a new president.)
TODAY I WILL STRIVE TO BE ANOTHER CHRIST TO MY CHILDREN BY:
Not being harsh
Showing them respect
Avoid rudeness
Be attentive
Ask forgiveness when I fail
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Self-Abasement in the Sight of God
The Disciple (part two)
It is Your love that does this, graciously upholding me, supporting me in so many necessities, guarding me from so many grave dangers, and snatching me, as I may truly say, from evils without number. Indeed, by loving myself badly I lost myself; by seeking only You and by truly loving You I have found both myself and You, and by that love I have reduced myself more profoundly to nothing. For You, O sweetest Lord, deal with me above all my merits and above all that I dare to hope or ask.
May You be blessed, my God, for although I am unworthy of any benefits, yet Your nobility and infinite goodness never cease to do good even for those who are ungrateful and far from You. Convert us to You, that we may be thankful, humble, and devout, for You are our salvation, our courage, and our strength. (especially for our country under a new president.)
TODAY I WILL STRIVE TO BE ANOTHER CHRIST TO MY CHILDREN BY:
Not being harsh
Showing them respect
Avoid rudeness
Be attentive
Ask forgiveness when I fail
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
IMITATION OF CHRIST: Meditation of the day...
The Eighth Chapter
Self-Abasement in the Sight of God
The Disciple
I WILL speak to my Lord, I who am but dust and ashes. If I consider myself anything more than this, behold You stand against me, and my sins bear witness to the truth which I cannot contradict. If I abase myself, however, if I humble myself to nothingness, if I shrink from all self-esteem and account myself as the dust which I am, Your grace will favor me, Your light will enshroud my heart, and all self-esteem, no matter how little, will sink in the depths of my nothingness to perish forever.
It is there You show me to myself—what I am, what I have been, and what I am coming to; for I am nothing and I did not know it. Left to myself, I am nothing but total weakness. But if You look upon me for an instant, I am at once made strong and filled with new joy. Great wonder it is that I, who of my own weight always sink to the depths, am so suddenly lifted up, and so graciously embraced by You.
I can't help but think of all the "self-esteem builders" that our world supports!!! We are constantly surrounded with the thoughts that it is "all about us!!!"
We could recite this Litany of Humility every day and still struggle with pride.
This was written by Cardinal Merry del Val. He was accustomed to recite this prayer daily after the celebration of Holy Mass.
O Jesus meek and humble of heart, Hear me.
From the desire of being esteemed,
From the desire of being loved,
From the desire of being extolled,
From the desire of being honored,
From the desire of being praised,
From the desire of being preferred to others,
From the desire of being consulted,
From the desire of being approved,
Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being humiliated,
From the fear of being despised,
From the fear of suffering rebukes,
From the fear of being calumniated,
From the fear of being forgotten,
From the fear of being ridiculed,
From the fear of being wronged,
From the fear of being suspected,
Deliver me, Jesus.
That others may be loved more than I,
That others may be esteemed more than I,
That in the opinion of the world, others may increase, and I may decrease,
That others may be chosen and I set aside,
That others may be praised and I unnoticed,
That others may be preferred to me in everything,
That others may become holier than I, provided that I become as holy as I should,
Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. Amen.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Self-Abasement in the Sight of God
The Disciple
I WILL speak to my Lord, I who am but dust and ashes. If I consider myself anything more than this, behold You stand against me, and my sins bear witness to the truth which I cannot contradict. If I abase myself, however, if I humble myself to nothingness, if I shrink from all self-esteem and account myself as the dust which I am, Your grace will favor me, Your light will enshroud my heart, and all self-esteem, no matter how little, will sink in the depths of my nothingness to perish forever.
It is there You show me to myself—what I am, what I have been, and what I am coming to; for I am nothing and I did not know it. Left to myself, I am nothing but total weakness. But if You look upon me for an instant, I am at once made strong and filled with new joy. Great wonder it is that I, who of my own weight always sink to the depths, am so suddenly lifted up, and so graciously embraced by You.
I can't help but think of all the "self-esteem builders" that our world supports!!! We are constantly surrounded with the thoughts that it is "all about us!!!"
We could recite this Litany of Humility every day and still struggle with pride.
This was written by Cardinal Merry del Val. He was accustomed to recite this prayer daily after the celebration of Holy Mass.
O Jesus meek and humble of heart, Hear me.
From the desire of being esteemed,
From the desire of being loved,
From the desire of being extolled,
From the desire of being honored,
From the desire of being praised,
From the desire of being preferred to others,
From the desire of being consulted,
From the desire of being approved,
Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being humiliated,
From the fear of being despised,
From the fear of suffering rebukes,
From the fear of being calumniated,
From the fear of being forgotten,
From the fear of being ridiculed,
From the fear of being wronged,
From the fear of being suspected,
Deliver me, Jesus.
That others may be loved more than I,
That others may be esteemed more than I,
That in the opinion of the world, others may increase, and I may decrease,
That others may be chosen and I set aside,
That others may be praised and I unnoticed,
That others may be preferred to me in everything,
That others may become holier than I, provided that I become as holy as I should,
Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. Amen.
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Race Car Tracks...
Christmas shopping? I am compiling a list of gifts we actually liked and use...any suggestions? We have 7 winter birthdays as well as Christmas. My suggestion for today are these race car tracks!!! Boys and girls any age like them. Send me your suggestions!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Bathtub scandal...
We usually bath the little kids together until one of them outwardly notices the physical changes of the other sex.
Our two year old who has been bathing with her older brother her entire life (almost 3 years)...and with her baby brother for his entire life (14months), just realized that the baby has the same parts as her big brother!!! She has never commented on her big brother's parts BTW...I wished I could of filmed the expression on her face when she tried to explain to the big brother that the little brother had the same...as she put it "thing hanging!!!"
Time for bathing suits!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Our two year old who has been bathing with her older brother her entire life (almost 3 years)...and with her baby brother for his entire life (14months), just realized that the baby has the same parts as her big brother!!! She has never commented on her big brother's parts BTW...I wished I could of filmed the expression on her face when she tried to explain to the big brother that the little brother had the same...as she put it "thing hanging!!!"
Time for bathing suits!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Monday, November 3, 2008
LAST MINUTE POLITICAL HUMOR...
POLITICS ARE CONFUSING TO ALL OF US!!!
My friends son announced that he saw a commercial that said, McCain lied...and Obama approved that message!!!
My friends son announced that he saw a commercial that said, McCain lied...and Obama approved that message!!!
TRYING TO BE CONTEMPLATIVE AND CONQUERING:
As Saint Augustine exhorts us, “Pray as if all depends on God, and work as if all depends on you.”
Time change...communist plot
I know my husband would agree that the time change is a communist plot...at 6:38am this morning while I am usually enjoying a quite amazing time in the chapel of our church, attending 6:30am mass...I instead was surrounded by 9 kids under 10!!! (3 on loan from my sister in love)
It all started around 5:48am when they started waking up...now we are in the midst of runny noses, lego wars, spilt cereal, and a messy kitchen...gotta go...my nephew is so excited that he can be homeschooled today...so I better make it good!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
It all started around 5:48am when they started waking up...now we are in the midst of runny noses, lego wars, spilt cereal, and a messy kitchen...gotta go...my nephew is so excited that he can be homeschooled today...so I better make it good!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
The Seventh Chapter
Grace Must Be Hidden Under the Mantle of Humility
The Voice of Christ (part four)
When a spirit of fervor is enkindled within you, you may well meditate on how you will feel when the fervor leaves. Then, when this happens, remember that the light which I have withdrawn for a time as a warning to you and for My own glory may again return. Such trials are often more beneficial than if you had things always as you wish. For a man's merits are not measured by many visions or consolations, or by knowledge of the Scriptures, or by his being in a higher position than others, but by the truth of his humility, by his capacity for divine charity, by his constancy in seeking purely and entirely the honor of God, by his disregard and positive contempt of self, and more, by preferring to be despised and humiliated rather than honored by others.
So what matters in the end is the truth of our humility, the capacity of our divine charity, the constancy in seeking purely and entirely the honor of God, the disregard and positive contempt of self, and by preferring to be despised and humiliated rather than honored by others. That is a tall order, but one worth striving for.
Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+
Grace Must Be Hidden Under the Mantle of Humility
The Voice of Christ (part four)
When a spirit of fervor is enkindled within you, you may well meditate on how you will feel when the fervor leaves. Then, when this happens, remember that the light which I have withdrawn for a time as a warning to you and for My own glory may again return. Such trials are often more beneficial than if you had things always as you wish. For a man's merits are not measured by many visions or consolations, or by knowledge of the Scriptures, or by his being in a higher position than others, but by the truth of his humility, by his capacity for divine charity, by his constancy in seeking purely and entirely the honor of God, by his disregard and positive contempt of self, and more, by preferring to be despised and humiliated rather than honored by others.
So what matters in the end is the truth of our humility, the capacity of our divine charity, the constancy in seeking purely and entirely the honor of God, the disregard and positive contempt of self, and by preferring to be despised and humiliated rather than honored by others. That is a tall order, but one worth striving for.
Thy will be done!!! +JMJ+
Sunday, November 2, 2008
VOTING!!!
IF YOU KNOW ANYONE STILL ON THE FENCE ABOUT VOTING AND THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT THE CANDIDATES BELIEVE...CHECK THIS OUT!!!
PUTTING THE KIDS TO BED EARLY...
This is the day each year for the past 12 years that I share one of those..."how do you do it?" questions...
One of the best things my husband and I learned and embraced many years ago when I was pregnant with our fifth, was to put our kids to bed early!!! We started to put them to bed at 7pm. This is a perfect time of year to utilize this practice with the time change...just remember...that with early to bed comes early to wake...it really didn't change my wake up time, since I was waking up with the babies anyway. I also am a morning person!!!It made my kids eat earlier, for all meals, which was fine...but in the long run it was one of the best things we every did. My husband and I had time together, we could go out at night without having a sitter or family have to put to bed a house full of little guys.
***THE SECRET TO THIS SUCCESS IS GOING TO BED EARLY YOURSELVES TOO!!!
As usual...when I give advice...you must decide with your spouse what is best for your family. I had one friend whose husband wanted her to do this...she worked at home midnights doing computer work for a hospital and was exhausted in the morning...it just didn't work for their family...and she just kept feeling inadequate.
One of the best things my husband and I learned and embraced many years ago when I was pregnant with our fifth, was to put our kids to bed early!!! We started to put them to bed at 7pm. This is a perfect time of year to utilize this practice with the time change...just remember...that with early to bed comes early to wake...it really didn't change my wake up time, since I was waking up with the babies anyway. I also am a morning person!!!It made my kids eat earlier, for all meals, which was fine...but in the long run it was one of the best things we every did. My husband and I had time together, we could go out at night without having a sitter or family have to put to bed a house full of little guys.
***THE SECRET TO THIS SUCCESS IS GOING TO BED EARLY YOURSELVES TOO!!!
As usual...when I give advice...you must decide with your spouse what is best for your family. I had one friend whose husband wanted her to do this...she worked at home midnights doing computer work for a hospital and was exhausted in the morning...it just didn't work for their family...and she just kept feeling inadequate.
Today's gospel reading
Gospel Jn 6:37-40
Jesus said to the crowds:“Everything that the Father gives me will come to me,and I will not reject anyone who comes to me,because I came down from heaven not to do my own will but the will of the one who sent me.And this is the will of the one who sent me,that I should not lose anything of what he gave me,but that I should raise it on the last day.For this is the will of my Father,that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life,and I shall raise him on the last day.”
...the will of the one who sent me...
Oh, Lord help me do Your will and fulfill the job You have for me!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Jesus said to the crowds:“Everything that the Father gives me will come to me,and I will not reject anyone who comes to me,because I came down from heaven not to do my own will but the will of the one who sent me.And this is the will of the one who sent me,that I should not lose anything of what he gave me,but that I should raise it on the last day.For this is the will of my Father,that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life,and I shall raise him on the last day.”
...the will of the one who sent me...
Oh, Lord help me do Your will and fulfill the job You have for me!!!
THY WILL BE DONE!!!+JMJ+
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Testing...Testing...
I am trying a new background...does it annoy you? I have to see how I like it...there may be more in the future...only 276 more to choose from... I feel like I just got a hair cut or something...
Once again...
Thy Will Be Done!!!+JMJ+
Once again...
Thy Will Be Done!!!+JMJ+
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