HOW DO WE UNDERSTAND THE TIME GOD GIVES US?
The following letter was written by a grandchild to his grandmother.This letter was written, not only for her, but for everyone who is dealing with cancer. We thank Joey for his wisdom: "Hi grandma. This is Joey. I haven't seen you since the fair at your Church and I was wondering how you were doing since the operation.This situation you are going through is new to all of us.When I heard kids talk bout their relatives getting cancer, it seemed so far away.But this past year, it's hit much closer to home.I don't know how you feel about questioning fate. But, if you ever find yourself asking "why has this happened to me," think of it like this. It was not your decision as to what time has dealt you. You are only to decide what to do with the time that is given.By the time this thing is over, something good has to come out of this. This sort of stuff happens for a reason. As of right now, you are on your way to find out what the reason is. Don't be discouraged. It's all part of faith. Love Joey"
by RCIA Scribe, Crystal Tyll)
Dear Jesus,
For each of your Elect in the RCIA Process, we fervently pray. As they now approach the Throne of Grace seeking the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, immerse them in Your Divine Mercy, surround them with Your Holy Spirit, and fill them with Your Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. While each of these, Your precious souls, are on their knees, open their spiritual eyes that they may see your radiant face, and forever imprint this moment on their hearts. Bind each of their hearts to Your own so that their faith may burn as brightly forever as it does today. Lead them, Lord Jesus, as torches into the world of darkness that You have called them out of to bear witness to Your glorious light. We praise You and thank You, Lord, that You have brought these RCIA members into Your Church. Help us now to support each of them and each other as we strive together to do Your Will. Amen
(The following was written by Jenni Schmaltz who is six years old! Thank you Jenni for being so special!)
JESUS
Jesus died for our sins we have made. He loves all of us very much. Did you now that Jesus is our father? Well yes he is actually is. Jesus is so powerful! Oh and did I mention our heavenly mother? No I did not, anyway yes she is Mary she is very wonderful! You no the one that had a angel come to her and say your going to have a baby and all that? Well that's true. I love Jesus god and Mary there the best! They all live in heaven I bet you no that by now all right. The only thing to tell you now is that there very wonderful and amazing! To: Mom and dad also Chris and remember he blesses you guys also. I love you guys very much.
I was at Mass a few weeks ago, complaining to Our Lord during the Consecration (the perfect time to be close to Him), that I was tired of doing, doing, and doing for my children. They were still "screwing up" after I had given them everything I had to give as a mom. I had given my love, my hard work, and myself. They were just not responding like I wished they would. Then, I was quiet (Yes, I was!) for a second. I heard the Lord say to me, "Now you know how I feel!"
Poem by Mother Theresa (Carved into the wall of her home for children in Calcutta)
People are often unreasonable, illogical and self-centered. FORGIVE THEM ANYWAY.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. BE KIND ANYWAY.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies. SUCCEED ANYWAY.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you. BE HONEST AND FRANK ANYWAY.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight. BUILD ANYWAY.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous. BE HAPPY ANYWAY.
The good you do today, people will forget tomorrow. DO GOOD ANYWAY.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. GIVE THE WORLD THE BEST YOU HAVE ANYWAY . . .
Magdalene In The Garden by Emma Jean LeBeault, April 10, 1988
"Who took the body?" she wonderered aloud. All she could see was a burial shroud. Messengers told her (and, pray, who were they?) The rabbi was gone, the rock rolled away.
She went to her garden and walked alone, not seeing the rose or how the sun shone, not hearing the dove or the man coming near. All she could hear were her thoughts and her fear.
He walked straight and tall as rid of a burden. Why did she not turn? Had she not heard him? She spun on her sandles, skirt swirling wide. Who was this coming with such a sure stride?
He spoke her name, "Mary." She instantly knew, 'Twas her Lord Jesus, His prophecy true.
The Strength of Love by Emma Jean LeBeault, September 16, 1965
I wonder if medical science can prove how much strength it takes to love. When a woman bakes a cake for a neighbor, would the mixing be considered her labor? Or would they start with the first little thought begun in her brain or was it her heart?
When a father ties the shoes of his son, would they measure his strength or consider it fun? When he tied the knot, would they measure the pull of muscle and sinew or would they cull statistics and findings from each little part of the four seperate chambers that make up his heart?
Loving another takes no supernatural power. It's as easy as looking at trees and at flowers. No special strength's demanded for this. There's no need to touch and none for a kiss. The secret is simple. Use this for a start. All you must do is "Give from the heart."
If you would like to submit your writings for publication, please contact Jan Tighe at 248-887-0027.