Cait's Creative Corner

TAKE TIME OUT!

2012-01-13T09:15:00.000-08:00

It's important, especially when we are busy to take time out. When we feel we have no time to relax is when we have most need to take a break.

Such a simple thing as relaxing can save our sanity and perhaps even our lives.

When we decide to take a break, we allow our minds to unwind. We open ourselves up to more than we can see in the present moment.

A closed mind can not make progress and will lead to a dull and un-interesting life.

Whereas a mind that is open will expand spiritually and mentally, allowing us to see beyond our own limits.

So, whenever we feel up-tight, the answer is found in a quiet relaxed moment. Take time out!

THE GIFT!

2012-01-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

The fact that each one of us is unique is a perfect setting for being creative.

Whatever we feel drawn to can be an indication of where our creative-self is to be found.

Is it writing / painting / gardening / hill-walking / music /drama ?

Perhaps we are a peoples-person and this is where our gift lies.

We might be some or all of these, yet there is special gift that we have been given and that will lead us on to becoming a truly holistic person.

When we read the lives of the saints, we are given an idea of how God draws people through their gifts.

So important then to have an open mind and listen to our calling.

We owe it to ourselves to be the best that we can be, and most important of all to be happy in following our gift.

ART of COMMUNICATION

2012-01-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

Being able to communicate with another person is sometimes easy / sometimes not.

There is an art form in being able to communicate in such a way that we actually find ourselves understanding one another.

It can happen that in our minds we believe we are saying words that make sense to another person. They may not.

It's humorous to see how people mis-understand each other at times, lending comedy to everyday life.

Yet, it's such a gift to be understood when we speak.

This comes from the heart. We give our heads a rest and allow the truth to be expressed through us.

Simply put, mean what we say and say what we mean.

Practise the art of communication!

A WRITER WRITES!

2012-01-03T04:29:00.000-08:00

Next Saturday, 7th January 2012, I'll begin again to host Creative Writing Workshops in SOL Studio.

I look forward to this occasion, meeting new people and old friends. Being part of other people's growth in creativity is quite an honour.

Each person is unique. This is proved so well when we experiment and start writing a short, fabricated story using the same sentence. For example...

'She stood by the sea, watching the waves as they crashed upon the rocks below...'

Each person will start off with the same line, yet begin a new story of their own.

This is a proof of our individuality and an awareness of how unique and special we are.

All are welcome to come. (Check sol website).

A NEW BEGINNING!

2012-01-01T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today, the first day of Y2012 is a first step in creating new patterns/ new ways of being and behaving.

They say it takes 21 days to create a new habit, so now is a good time to start and make a new beginning!

We have God on our side, so we have everything to hope for, and in a way, nothing to lose.

Even our so-called failures can be stepping stones to success.

Are we up to it? If so, let's begin!

GO FORWARD!

2011-12-29T01:08:00.000-08:00

Now that we are coming close to a New Year and leaving the past behind, it's good to sort ourselves out.

What do we want? Where do we want to go, and why?

In an writing exercise, 'who/why /what/where/when ' is a great way to get started in writing fiction and creating characters.

Perhaps the best character to work on is ourselves. We are special.

Our lives are special. This New Year is special.

When we keep this in mind, then it's easy to move forward and create new happenings/ new patterns/ new ways.

Go forward, aware that we are in Good Company!

Celebrate Life!

2011-12-27T01:28:00.000-08:00

After the celebration of Christmas, the Birthday of Christ, it's a good 'follow-upper' to begin to celebrate life!

Parties and family get-to-gethers are all part of this wonderful celebration of being alive / able and willing to care and share for each other.

Sharing of gifts is good, yet the best gift of all is a sharing of ourselves. We open our hearts to each other and show how much we care.

Whenever relationships become 'heavy' or difficult, it's time to return to this wonderful celebration of life. We are alive!

Through our good will, we learn how to have relationships that matter.

Friends are ours for the asking, when we show how much we care about others.

Life is too important and short to waste time feeling bad or sad.

Be happy and glad to have a chance to celebrate life!

BE BRAVE!

2011-12-21T13:35:00.000-08:00

Be brave and unafraid...

Courage comes when we face whatever we are afraid of.

You could say that being afraid is a positive position to be in, just like a soldier on the battle-field. He can feel afraid, yet he is trained to respond to the need of the situation.

We are the same. Life will and does present us with situations where we can feel afraid / unable to face a challenge...

However, because we have 'trained' in the school of the positive, then we will be ready to do what is asked of us.

God meets us where we are at. His love is all embracing, and will lift us over all hurdles that stand in our way.

All we have to do is ask / pray for help, then get on with living a positive life!

Invitation to Change!

2011-12-19T03:02:00.000-08:00

As we progress in the spiritual life, we will be invited to move forward, to change.

This invitation will come, often when we least expect it.

We meet new friends, and say goodbye to others.

People move on / we move on / Changes happen.

This is God's way of leading us forward to become a better, more rounded person.

Have I the good will to say yes?

Am I prepared to accept the invitation to change?

If and when we are disturbed by change, we have only to ask for help from He who loves us.

TRUST

2011-12-13T06:16:00.000-08:00

It's quite an achievement to trust in another person, to allow them to have imput in our lives and to be guided by their wisdom and standards.

Trust does not come easily, yet as soon as we allow our hearts to be guided by love, then it will become easy to trust.

People are like ourselves, good-hearted yet not perfect in decision-making etc.

We gain a great deal when we learn to trust others, even if they make wrong decisions or let us down in some way or other.

However, when we look at the Majesty and Divinity of God, we can only be amazed at how much we are trusted and given freedom to do what is right.

This makes it easy for us to have complete trust in God.

A Mother's Love

2011-12-08T04:48:00.000-08:00

Today is Our Lady's feast day, the Immaculate Conception.

Such a special day for those who see Mary as the Mother of Christ, and our Mother too.

Of course, we have a great regard for our own natural mothers, those heroic women who helped form us into the person we are today.

They have also taught us the value of a mother's love.

This now is Mary's role, to help us and teach us how to love in this complex world of ours.

When we become aware of how much we are loved and cared for, then it becomes easy for us to love and care for others.

Mary is always available to meet our needs and hear our prayers.

PREPARE for CHRISTMAS

2011-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

Preparation is the key to success, so we are told.

I believe this is true. So, if we want to have a happy Christmas, then it's important to prepare ourselves for this very special event.

Christmas is all about the Birth of Christ, the coming of Someone who loves and cherishes us.

Christ came on earth so we might be free; free from sorrow and pain.

Let's examine our lives and see if there is a place in our hearts where we can develop and love more; more sincerely; more generously; more truthfully.

The message of Christmas is all about LOVE!

Look on the bright side...

2011-11-26T00:12:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when we feel our good-will waning, it's important to look on the bright side of life.

Have we our health? Can we walk? Better still, can we dance/ talk/ laugh/ have we the ability to look on the bright side of life and count our blessings.

We may have a list of all the things that didn't work, yet more importantly, have we a list of all the things that have worked and do work?

Life is full of surprises and invitations. What a wonderful opportunity we have to embrace each day and make the best of it.

How? Simply look on the bright side of life!

Love one another!

2011-11-20T06:15:00.000-08:00

The commandment to love one another is both encouraging and almost impossible.

Each one of us has likes and dislikes; people we feel a natural infinity for, and those we don't...

God knows our human weaknesses, even more so than we do ourselves, yet He also knows that we are made in His image and likeness.

We can do all things in Him who strengthens us, provided we believe that we can do so.

Nothing can prevent us from loving.

Believe we can, and we can!

Give of one's best.

2011-11-17T12:26:00.000-08:00

It dawned on me today that we can give a little, or give a lot. The choice is ours.

When we read the lives of the saints and look at their approach to love, they believed in giving whole-heartily.

St. Teresa of Avila took a vow to always do the most perfect thing, whatever that might be.

She believed in giving of her best. Nothing but her best was good enough.

So, there's a high standard for all of us who might find it hard to be a total giver.

Love is all embracing and would ask us to always give of our best.

Celebrate!

2011-11-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

Today is a friend's birthday, the big 60 and she is happy with many cards and presents.

This got me thinking about life, the gift of life and how important it is to celebrate life.

Perhaps most of our days are spent in doing the ordinary, everyday things, yet each day is special, a gift from God.

This is why a huge thank you is due to our Creator for keeping us alive and well.

We are all gifted people, some gifts we may not even know we have, so it's important to dig deep into our souls and discover how gracious God is and how gifted we are.

When you think about it, we have a lot to celebrate!

SPECIAL!

2011-11-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Today is special, the 11th of 11th month of year 2011.

It occurred to me that being special is all to do with how we value something.

When I value my ability to do something, then it is special.

When I value friendship, then it becomes special for me.

Such power we have, to make whatever we value special.

This is a good time to value the gift of Faith, then this precious gift will always be special for us.

Generous YES

2011-11-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

It's such a little word and yet can mean so much to say YES.

Of course there are times when we must state how we are and face our own short-comings and weaknesses. This is good and honest.

God does not weigh us down. Whenever we have a challenge, He provides us with the grace to do what is expected of us.

Most times, it's not our weakness, it's our pride that doesn't allow us to give a generous YES.

We may be asked to help with a job that does not appeal to us, or share our time with someone we find challenging...

Whatever it might be, all we need to do is pray and remind ourselves that we have grace to deal with all that is God's Will for us.

In fact, that's all that is asked of us, to do God's Will with a cheerful heart, glad to have the privilage of serving Love.

Happy to be me.

2011-11-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

Most people, if not all of us, want to be happy. This blissful feeling of contentment, of happiness, is superior to all the wealth in the world.

Of course we may have desires/ things we want to do/ places we want to go to etc. This is all part of being human and helps towards being happy.

Perhaps the secret of happiness is not such a great secret after all. As soon as we are willing to care for another person,we have stepped on the road to happiness big-time!

Simply put, the secret of happiness is found in loving. Let's reach out and discover this mystical world of love.

BE OF A CREATIVE MIND!

2011-11-04T15:33:00.000-07:00

To be of a creative mind depends on how open one is to change.
We may all like to be a creative person, yet there is a price to pay for any and all gifts one might possess.
For example, to be a creative writer then one has a need to write, not just now and then, but each day.
How consistant we are will determine how good we will be at our craft.
Tomorrow, Saturday 5th November is special for me because I will run another Creative Writing Workshop here in SOL Studio.
I'm a bit nervous and excited too.
The best way to be good at what we do is to share it with others.
So, let me encourage all to be of a creative mind.

Have a wonderful day!

2011-10-31T01:17:00.000-07:00

Whenever we go to new places and meet new people we experience a sense of adventure; we are excited by the 'new'.
And yet, each day is new. We are a new person, facing a new day and none of us can know for sure how our day will work out.
A positive attitude will help us to go forward and embrace all that happens in the gift of this new day that we are receiving.
Whatever happened yesterday is in the past. What we have now is the present moment, a magical time to re-invent ourselves.
Let's have a wonderful day!

Getting older...

2011-10-22T03:22:00.000-07:00

In a young world, the whole idea of becoming older can be fraught with anxiety and fears of all kinds.

Yet, what does it mean to grow older? Do we become a different person, unable to respond to life in general?

Age may slow us down, yet does not prevent us from loving and caring.

In many ways, we become a better, more sensitive and gentle person because we have more life skills and experiences to help us deal with life and people in general.

Look at our Mentor, the gentle, meek and humble heart of Christ and learn from the One who is Love.

VALUE of TIME

2011-10-18T04:28:00.000-07:00

Often, when we have a job to do and have a deadline to complete it, we realise the value of time.

Time management may not be every body's gift, yet it is a skill that we can learn by appreciating the value of time.

As we grow older and the years seem to fly away, we become more focused on what is essential in our lives.

We value each hour of each day of each week, with appreciation and gratitude for the gift of life itself.

People of Faith believe that God calls us home at our best moment. This is a consoling thought.

Let's value the time given to us to prepare ourselves for the journey home to heaven.

A PATIENT MIND

2011-10-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Perhaps all of us want to be christian minded, someone who asks what would Christ do and so respond in like manner.

Yet, human nature can come into the picture and we fall short of our ideals.

How can we resolve this? What is the solution?

I believe patience is the strong point, like a backbone that keeps us erect and able to keep working, despite whatever failures may happen.

A patient mind will be able to assess each situation and find a positive solution. This does not depend on logic or understanding.

It has more to do with following our heart / listening to that little voice inside that teaches us the truth in each given situation.

After all, we are called to love, and who better to teach us than He who is Love.

LOOK OUTSIDE THE BOX

2011-10-08T06:12:00.000-07:00

Today, I found myself working with a 'new' person with new ways of doing things that would be foreign to me.

It made me realise that often our ways of doing things are based on habits. We become comfortable in what works well for us.

Yet, as soon as we begin to share and work with others we can be surprised to learn there are different ways of doings / approaching challenges etc.

If we are quick to let go of our 'comfort zone' then what might appear disturbing can really be enlightening. We learn from others new ways to deal with life.

This makes us a better, more rounded person.

Every person we meet can be our teacher, and like-wise, our pupil.

Look outside the box and be happily surprised.

PIN PRICKS

2011-10-05T02:57:00.000-07:00

Our days can often be filled with 'pin-pricks', little happenings that cause us pain.

We are not going to die from these inconveniences, yet emotionally we can feel a certain death.

If we are wise and quick enough, we'll realise it's only our bruised ego that feels the pain.

A good help is the ability to find some humour or learning curve in what has happened.

Perhaps at times, we are the ones who cause others to feel 'pin-pricks'.

This is all part of being human...

"How frail You have made the sons (and daughters) of men!"

GIFT OF LIFE

2011-09-28T08:41:00.000-07:00

I heard today of a friend, a good person, who had died quite suddenly. May she rest in peace.

When we believe in Heaven, we believe that God calls us at our best moment. However, emotionally we can be disturbed and distraught. Here was a person we could talk to /share our experiences with, but not anymore.

Spiritually, we can communicate within our hearts with those who have passed on, yet it's not the same. The relationship is different.

I walked over to the sea-front, enjoying the warm breeze and sunshine. This pleasure is still mine, for now.

I can only surmise that Heaven is beyond all delights. Yet, we can feel sorry for those who are left behind in grief.

CHILDLIKE

2011-09-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

In a busy world where we find ourselves chasing after time to do all the things we want to do, it's a refreshing idea to simply be 'like a child'.

How do we do that, I wonder?

In becoming a child, as an adult, we have a lot to un-learn. It's like going back to school, to learn how to empty our minds of all the non-essentials that clutter up our lives.

A child will respond to what happens NOW.

As adults we can hold on to baggage, mentally and physically, and so lose focus and become frustrated with ourselves and life in general.

Learning to be childlike and open-minded to what comes to us in the present moment will teach us how to become all we are meant to be,

a true child of God.

GO THE EXTRA MILE

2011-09-20T06:07:00.000-07:00

No matter who we are or where we are, we will most likely find ourselves invited to

'go the extra mile'.

A generous heart is a great asset to have. This gives us the ability to push ourselves to be more than we think we are.

Yet, it's when we are tired, or sick, or frustrated in some way that these wonderful opportunities to enlarge our hearts will come our way.

God is so compassionate with each one of us. Still, He will prompt us to reach out and may even give us a 'gentle push' to go that extra mile, or so.

What a great help it will be if we are prepared in our hearts to give that little bit more, and more.

We have the great example of Christ, teaching us to give all, and not to count the cost.

So, let's be ready to go that extra mile!

LOVE HEALS

2011-09-13T00:23:00.000-07:00

We live in a strange world where people can be afraid to love. Why?
Perhaps we are longing so much for love that we build a false image of what love is all about.
Love is a wonderful gift that each one of us possess when we want to love.
So simple, love is ours for the asking.
It could well be one of the reasons why we fail when it come to love. We forget to ask.
Just like a child who tries to take a cake, without asking, and so is refused. We too, will find love elusive if we forget to ask for the grace to help us to love.
Love will heal all hurts and wounds. God is willing to help us out.
Just ask!

MARY'S PLACE

2011-09-08T04:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the our Lady's birthday, as celebrated by the Church.

This got me thinking about mothers and how important their birthdays are to their children. If our mothers had never been born, we would not exist at all!

God's plan for each one of us is shrouded in mystery. How our lives develop are often dependent on where we were born and who our parents were etc.

The Divine operates through the natural.

We grow up and learn to make choices for ourselves and so we are the product of all the choices we make, and will make.

Mary's place in our lives is vitally important. She is like a guiding light that will help us to make the right choices, if we recognise our need and are willing to ask for her help.

Rest in Me!

2011-08-20T00:26:00.000-07:00

Whenever we are troubled and unable to see a solution to what may be troubling us, all we have to do is pray; open our hearts to God and He will guide us.

There is always a answer. We may not have it, yet we believe and know in our hearts that God is with us.

'Come to Me, all you who are burdened and I will give you rest.'

Rest in Me!

CREATED TO LOVE

2011-08-09T06:34:00.000-07:00

The human mind is so complex and yet so simple.

We are created to love and are fulfilled in loving, therefore it's a wonderful thing to reach out to each other in a caring and loving way.

Sometimes all we can do is send a greeting / give a smile / a listening ear etc.

Then again we may be asked to love greatly, even at a cost to ourselves. This is where we prove our love for each other and practise our faith.

God loves a generous, willing giver.

Keep it Simple

2011-08-07T01:52:00.001-07:00

In our relationship with God we can become confused, or misguided.

We want to be wholehearted in our beliefs, to have strong faith, yet scruples and worries can get in the way.

God will guide us, encourage us, even prod us at times, yet He will never discourage us.

This is the beauty of love, and He who is Love, that we are always encouraged to be happy and to enjoy life.

If and when discouragement sets in, then we can be sure it is not the work of God.

A Friend will always help with positive ways to become a more wholesome person.

Let's keep it simple and listen to the gentle, encouraging Voice of God.

The Value of Weakness

2011-08-02T04:18:00.000-07:00

We are all prone to weakness. Even our best efforts will fail at times. This is actually a positive rather than a negative experience, yet the emotional effect of failing can linger and cause us to feel bad about ourselves and our endeavours.

The value of weakness is found in the efforts we make to overcome our feelings and make progress in loving; loving to be just who we are, warts and all.

And when we are weak, we are also strong. A paradox that comes about through using our faith and believing that all is good.

God does not makes mistakes. Who we are is our gift from Him.

When we love weakness, we learn to see God's love in all that is.

Be Honest

2011-07-27T21:55:00.000-07:00

The ability to be honest, to say what we mean and to mean what we say is not easy.

We may be programmed to be a nice person, someone who doesn't want to hurt or upset another person. This is good, yet may well be wrong if and when the truth is in jeopardy.

Truth is the core of each person's persona; who we truly are. Whatever we say or do may not be the real 'us'. We may hide behind a facade of 'niceness', a person who is liked by others and is known to be a likeable person.

Our core / our spiritual being cannot be fooled. Only when we are truly honest with ourselves, and others, will be be free to be the person God created us to be.

"The TRUTH will set us free."

CELEBRATE!

2011-07-19T07:03:00.000-07:00

We all need to celebrate, sometimes more than others.
It comes naturally to celebrate success / when things go right for us.
Yet, perhaps we need to celebrate when things don't go right for us / when we fail or have failure thrust upon us.
In a spiritual sense, there is no such thing as failure. It's just a learning curve, a way to develop and grow in maturity and good common-sense.

Wisdom is borne of pain, so they say.

A celebration helps us to relax and learn what life is teaching us.

A Gentle Person

2011-07-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

To be a gentle person requires discipline with ourselves. This helps us to have an awareness of other people and their needs.

The person who is gentle is open and willing to change when change is needed.

A good role-model is always welcome, and for those of us with a little faith, we have the best Role-Model in the whole world, Jesus Christ!

The life of Christ is all about gentleness and compassion for the needs of others. The stories in the Gospel tell us only a fraction of this wonderful Redeemer.

This Gentle Person is our guide through life.

It's all about belief!

2011-06-25T00:03:00.000-07:00

Our whole lives are based on our belief system. Even in the Medical world we are told that people who have a strong belief recover more quickly.

This positive belief is part of our whole lives. Take for example the student who knows they have to study and are daunted by the work-load, yet if they can believe in the value of learning and sticking with the job in hand, then they will be winners!

We are all students of life. Our aim is to better ourselves and grow as a loving, productive person.

Believe we can be better, more positive / more loving / happy people!

REACH OUT!

2011-06-23T00:22:00.000-07:00

To be happy in this interesting and challenging world of ours, there is a need to reach out to others.
We all like our space / our time out / our privacy, and well we might. Yet we are surrounded by people. People who have needs, just like ourselves.

We are not asked to play God. He well knows how to do His job. However, we are prompted to respond to His inspirations,
Do I? Am I able? Good questions to ask.

This precious world of ours rotates on Love!

Be at peace

2011-06-19T03:17:00.000-07:00

Our lives can be busy in many ways. We may have a 'wish' list, things we would so like to do etc.

This is healthy and positive, to be busy and active. Yet, how we are, rather than what we do, is more important.

This is where our peace of mind steps in. A good examination of conscience will help us to focus on how we are.

Are we happy? Are we open to doing God's Will in our daily life?

Are we at peace?

Peace of mind is a good indicator of just how we are. Our regard for our peace will help us to face whatever is disturbing us or not quite right in our lives.

Be at peace!

Change for the better.

2011-06-13T23:58:00.000-07:00

Change happens, whether we like it or not.

It can be a good thing to have regular routines, ways we have to insure our life is smooth and productive.

It's also good to face change, head-on. The world we live in is changing, and we too are moving on, hopefully to a better future.

That's why it's such a positive step to embrace change.

Our bodies grow older, yet hopefully our mentality grows younger, more able to see the beauty of change.

Each day invites us to be a better, more loving person. Do we see the invitation and embrace it?

God loves us, more than we can imagine. Our potential to return that love is endless. Opportunities come with people and places etc.

Am I ready, ready to change?

LOVE A LITTLE!

2011-06-09T00:13:00.000-07:00

In a busy world, to care and be aware of others is a wonderful thing.

We all know how much it can mean when someone cares enough to think about us, write to us, call us, pray for us.

Little things can mean so much and yet may not be so little when it comes to love.

To give someone a cup of water when they are thirsty could mean the difference between life and death.

Perhaps we don't meet these extremes in our daily life, yet a kind word can give 'life' to one who is thirsty for love.

When we are focused on loving, then even the smallest gesture is of great importance.

Love a little!

THE GAME OF LOVE

2011-06-04T13:12:00.000-07:00

Whatever happens to us, it's good to know that we are being invited to love.

Of course, we have our own ideas of how to love and how love should be presented, yet be patient. God has special ways of helping us to grow in love.

Often, disappointments or even failure can lend more to love than obvious success.

Whatever God dictates is always best for us. Trust in His Love for us.

The Artist

2011-05-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday, 29th May was a special day for Arts in Wicklow.

The Arts Festival was in full swing, with diverse interests to suit all tastes and ages, young and old!

Several Writers groups met together in the beautiful Cosmic Garden (beside the Ecology Centre on the grounds of the Dominican Convent).

God was kind to us and the sun shone all the while we shared our creative interests and read our poems.

If you find yourself in Wicklow town, do call up to visit the Cosmic Garden. I can only say how lovely it is. One has to see it for themselves.

There is an Artist in each one of us and when we follow our creative inspirations then we share what is best in us.

Still, good to remember that God will provide the inspirations. He leaves us to do the work!

Living in the Now!

2011-05-23T02:15:00.000-07:00

A lot of our lives can be taken up with memories of the past and challenges of the future. Yet only when we learn to deal with our past and have a positive outlook on life, will we be able to live in the present moment.

This precious time of NOW is all we have really.

God is constantly inviting us to grow and develop in love. This is the challenge of the present moment.

Can I respond? Will I respond? Only God knows. We have such freedom to go forward or backward...

Let's open our hearts to Love and continue to put Love first, in all things.

It's becomes easy, the more we do it.

Wisdom

2011-05-16T02:50:00.000-07:00

Each one of us has a life to live. If we are guided by Wisdom, then we will live well/ love well.

God is with us, every step of the way. We only need to tune in to the Wisdom of God and all will be well.

The world we live in is full of challenges / opportunities to develop and become a better, more rounded person.

When we approach each day with confidence in God's love for us, then we

have nothing to fear. We learn to enjoy the gift of life and value it.

We are created to love. Let's be wise and avail of the many invitations that come our way to love, and love, and love.

SEIZE THE DAY!

2011-05-07T00:04:00.000-07:00

Each day is a golden opportunity to be creative and make progress in becoming a better, more loving person.

Often what we regard as a difficulty could be a chance to grow in awareness, to see our world from a different perspective.

We have a plan to do things, and everything may go wrong. Not to worry.

There is a Divine Plan, ready and willing to guide us on our journey through life.

Pick up the pieces and start again. Effort is never wasted. We learn so much, simply by doing.

So whatever is today's challenge, be ready. God is with us.

MAY DAY!

2011-05-02T00:18:00.000-07:00

The first day of May was like a earthquake, shattering all the petty problems of this life and reminding us that we are on a journey, to spend Heaven with the One who loves us.

The beatification of John-Paul 11 resounded around the whole world.

The Church has named many saints, yet here is one who is already known to all, big and small alike.

What made his life so special? Becoming Pope, leader of the Catholic Church? Not really.

It is shown in his love for God and for all mankind.

A saint is one who loves God, with all their heart, soul and mind.

CELEBRATE EASTER

2011-04-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

In a world of turmoil and discontent, it's a huge thing to celebrate and enjoy the happy times that come our way.
Easter is such a special time. Christ was crucified and died for us so that we might live in peace and happiness.
The Passion is a sad and sorrowful time, yet is followed by the wonderful Joy of Easter.
Whatever our beliefs, we can be moved by Someone who would be willing to die for us and we can be joyful that His sorrow in ended.
Easter helps us to begin again. Let's celebrate!

The Journey

2011-04-19T00:18:00.000-07:00

We are all on a journey, hopefully on our way to spend Eternity with the One who loves us.
This week, Holy week, is a good time to evaluate our position and how we are progressing on the journey to Heaven.

Christ has already prepared the Way for us. Just like a 'sat-nap' we only need to 'tune' into the pathways designated for us.

As we are unique, there is a specific pathway for each person.

When we pray, we link up with God's Will for us and so are guided along our true pathway in life.

This Journey to Heaven is the most important journey of our lives.

It would be sad to lose our way. Maybe we get side-tracked sometimes, yet we can always find our way back.

Simply pray, tune in, ask for guidance and the Way will be made clear.
'I am the Way, the Truth and the Life... Follow Me'

GIVE A LITTLE!

2011-04-14T04:50:00.000-07:00

There are times when we may not be able to do very much. We want to do a lot, yet perhaps we are tired or sick or simply lacking in good-will.

Whatever it is that holds us back from being generous and interested in others may have a justifiable reason, yet pay no attention to it.

We are created to love and love means giving and sharing and caring.

So, when our nature kicks up and doesn't want to be a loving saint, then say 'okay' and just give a little.

Let's do whatever we can, then do a little more, and more, and more.

It's good to remember that we are like children. We don't often know what's good for us.

We want to be happy and loved and cared for, not realising that it is in the measure we give that we are able to receive.

Give a little. Keep the 'ball' of kindness rolling!

ADVANTAGE

2011-04-09T00:08:00.000-07:00

There is an advantage, something positive, in every situation whatever it might be.

A lot depends on ourselves and the disposition of our heart and soul. When we open our hearts to love, then our lives are filled with opportunities to love.

It's up to us to take advantage of all these wonderful invitations that are coming our way.

Learning to take advantage of adversity and turn it into something positive is the big challenge of life.

It's a bold step to see all that happens as an advantage, a learning curve that will make us a better person.

God will always invite us to stay on the path of Love.

Have a little Faith

2011-04-05T03:53:00.000-07:00

In the insecure world of today it makes great sense to have a little Faith.

Logic and intelligence will take us so far, yet only so far.

We can study and use the minds of those who know best, yet even there we are limited.

There is no limit to the Wisdom of God. This wonderful Adviser is at our disposal whenever we decide to ask for help.

Just have a little Faith... 'Ask and you shall receive...'

The Role of a Mother!

2011-04-03T02:06:00.000-07:00

Today, Mother's Day, is a good time to reflect on the role of a mother.

My memories of my own mother are tinged with bitter-sweetness. She was only 48 years old when she died, leaving behind a family of eight children.

My father had already passed on, yet despite poor health, she soldiered on until God decided to call her home.

No one can take the place of a loving mother. We missed her terribly, yet God cloaked the cross with kindness.

He gave us his own Mother to look after us. She never fails in her role as a Mother and helps us in more ways than we are even aware of.

What a privilege it is to be guided by the Mother of God.

Forgive us our trespasses...

2011-04-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

There are times when we fail; we make a promise to ourselves to do something or not to do something, then fail miserably.

Perhaps it's part of human nature that we like to believe we can choose to do something and it will be done.

We have a free will and we can make choices, yet we also have weaknesses that trip us up and reveal to us just how vulnerable we truly are.

In the Our Father prayer we ask, 'Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us...'

Such a great prayer, presenting us with two sides, how we look at ourselves and how we look at others.

God readily forgives us when we are sorry. Let's follow His good example and forgive from our heart those who may hurt or disappoint us.

A GOOD HEART!

2011-03-27T02:23:00.000-07:00

Now that Lent is here, I came up with so many ideas of what to do.

The first one was to do with Food. I would discipline myself and eat only what would be good for a healthy body.

Needless to say, I was tempted and failed.

The second one was to do with a Positive Spirit.

I like this one better as each day presents us with so many opportunites to overcome ourselves and put the interests of others first.

After some more failures, I began to realise that what God loves most is a good-hearted person.

So, why not give HE who loves us so much, what He desires most.

This has become my saving grace, desiring to have a good heart.

Failures often teach us about ourselves and help us to become a more rounded person.

A good hearted person is one who can find a positive side to all that happens, both to themselves and others.

What a lovely way to better ourselves, to be of good heart!

Make it happen

2011-03-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

We probably all have a dream and may even dream about our dream, yet that's all it will be unless we make it happen.

Perhaps we are afraid to be selfish; afraid of what other people might think of us; afraid to let go of our securities etc.

Whatever it is that holds us back from following our dream, we need to be strong and just go for it!

A happy person is one who is open and willing to reach for the stars; free from fear and willing to take a risk.

So, what is my dream? And am I taking steps to fulfill it?

These are the questions we need to ask ourselves.

let's be honest and follow our dream.

LORD, that I may see!

2011-02-23T09:25:00.000-08:00

A silly accident in breaking my glasses led to an eye-test and gave me an awareness of what a gift it is to be able to see.

It's easy to take our health for granted, and yet there is such a need to look after this Temple of the Holy Spirit.

That's why positive discipline will ensure that we stay healthy, in mind/body and spirit.

Now, coming into Spring we have flowers blooming and trees budding. So much to see and appreciate.

And there is the inner eye that helps us see the beauty in each person we meet.

How good God is to each one of us.

Lord, that I may see!

LEAVE ALL TO GOD

2011-02-19T05:52:00.000-08:00

At times, we may want to please people, and this is not a bad thing, yet its also wise to reflect and realise that God is in charge.
God ordains all that is meant to happen.
When we work with God, there is a balance to all we do. We are focused and happy to follow the inspirations that come our way.

Worry and anxiety are not part of God's plan for us.

Usually worries come about when we forget to rely on God and think that all depends on us.

Peace of mind and tranquility come about when we pray and invite God to be part of all we do.

So, no matter what comes our way, simply say...

Dear God, guide me. I leave all to You.

GO THE EXTRA MILE

2011-02-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

It's good to be generous and kind-hearted, to care for people and have time to listen to what they have to say.

Yet, there are times when we are tired and busy and not in top-form, so it can take a stretch for us to be patient and continue to care.

Perhaps these times are the best, because it requires the practise of virtue to do even the smallest act of kindness.

How God must smile on us. We have such a desire to be good, even saintly, and we barely manage to be human.

What a blow to our ego. How small we can feel, humbled by our lack of virtue as we would see it.

So, let's not worry when we are made aware of our lack of virtue and short-comings. God sees all.

He reads our heart and when the time is right He supplies us with the grace to go that extra mile, and win the race.

AT EASE

2011-02-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

To be at ease is a great thing. It means that we are free from stress and worry.

Also, it means that we are not out to impress anybody; we are just ourselves.

I believe it is a grace to be fully ourselves and undaunted by publicity or fame, or even infamy.

What people think, or don't think about us, is none of our business. Each person is free to think as they please.

The more truthful a person is, the more able they are to come up with an objective opinion, regardless of the opinion of others.

So, relax and put your feet up. Meditate on all that is spiritual and be at ease with yourself.

Welcome to my World

2011-02-07T09:35:00.001-08:00

Each person is a world unto themselves.

We can learn to step into another person's world and become aware of how amazingly different and unique we are.

The way to do this is through friendship.

When I am willing to welcome you into my world, just as I am, then I am open to becoming a friend, and having a friend.

Perhaps we hold back, refuse to bare our soul and taste the vulnerability of being without a safety net...

Or, we can just launch out into the deep and allow the magic of the present moment to move us and teach us how to be whole again.

ABANDONMENT

2011-02-04T05:28:00.000-08:00

To abandon ourselves would seem to be a foolish thing to do. After all, we are meant to be responsible for ourselves and be wise.

Is it wise to abandon ourselves?

When it comes to God, our Creator, then it makes good sense to abandon ourselves to the One who loves us.

This trust in God will help us to grow in a spirit of trust for others. This is the foundation for freedom.

It's so easy to be free when we are unburdened. Often what burdens us is attachments to a sense of freedom which is not real.

Real freedom comes about when we are not tied down by material things; when we can open our hearts to God and freely respond to the graces of the present moment.

Abandonment is the key to freedom and happiness.

JUDGE NOT!

2011-01-26T05:34:00.000-08:00

Met a friend of a friend, the other day, someone I'm not by nature attracted to, therefore it can be a challenge when the person takes on a righteous attitude to something or other.

I know and believe that we are not meant to judge...

'Judge not and you shall not be judged'

... however it can be hard when feeling are roused and one wants to say out exactly how one feels, for better or worse.

Then I am reminded of how it is for each one of us with God, and how we are treated so kindly and compassionately.

After all, who is ready to cast the first stone?

I will not judge!

PERSEVERE

2011-01-23T01:45:00.000-08:00

To persevere at anything means commitment.

When we show a willingness to stick at something, whatever it might be, we give 'back-bone' to our lives and become a better person.

One of the challenges of being a Christian is to perserve in following in the footsteps of Christ.

A good person I know would often say, 'What would the Nazarene do?'

When I ask myself that question, I'm often surprised at the answer I get.

For some people, perseverance relates to sacrifice, and it may well do so, yet it's good to bear in mind that God is a loving, compassionate Father who wants us to be happy and to enjoy life.

This could be one of the reasons why perseverance pays off. A person who can commit and continue in their commitments will be unburdened and happy with life.

Perseverance may well be the key to happiness.

WELCOME

2011-01-19T11:47:00.000-08:00

To be open to change, it's very important to welcome whatever is new in our lives.

We are presented with new people / new ways of doing things / new opportunities to learn and develop our talents.

A welcome heart will make it easy to accept and even embrace the NEW. After all, God wouldn't like us to grow stale, or be bored with life.

Therefore out of love for us, He will allow challenges to come our way.

Do we / can we welcome them?

The choice is up to us.

LOVABLE!

2011-01-16T02:36:00.000-08:00

There is an inherent weakness in the human race, the fact that we have a need for love.

Some find this need fulfilled in a relationship with another person or persons.

Others go directly to what they believe is the Source of Love, God Himself.

Each path we take will lead us on to an invitation to become lovable.

This invitation is dependant on our relationship skills. Just how do we get on with others?

How comfortable are we with ourselves?

How open are we to God, and the call of LOVE?

We are naturally drawn to a lovable person. Becoming this person is the best challenge we can put to ourselves.

Perhaps, in aiming at becoming lovable we will learn to discard the petty things that separate people from one another.

We will become Love.

PAY ATTENTION!

2011-01-11T00:03:00.000-08:00

There is such an amount of knowledge available today. All we have to do is pay attention, listen and learn.

Knowledge is at our finger-tips, yet if we don't turn on the computer then how can we access this mine of information offered to us.

To pay attention means focusing on what we want to learn, with patience and trust in the 'teacher' whoever they might be.

In the spiritual life, we have the best Teacher of all, willing and able to guide us along the path of life.

Wisdom is ours, just for the asking.

If we pay attention, all will be given to us. That is a promise.

LIBERTY

2011-01-10T07:45:00.000-08:00

All through history we are reminded of the need for Liberty. People were willing to sacrifice their lives in the name of Liberty and Freedom.

I wonder what liberty means to the ordinary person today?

Does it mean having the freedom to do what we like / when we like etc.

True Liberty relates to the soul of a person, to the ability to be true to ourselves / to live a life of high morals, whatever the cost.

Have we that freedom? Do we value liberty, and are we willing to pay the price for the gift of a liberated life?

No one can answer these questions for us. It will take a bit of soul-searching to come up with truthful answers.

DREAMERS

2011-01-05T09:24:00.000-08:00

It's easy to put labels on people; some people come across as a worker / another person we see as a dreamer.

It can be easy to measure a person's success according to their achievements, and yet, only God can be the judge of who is the better person.

We see the outside / God sees the inside.

The best way to 'judge' another person ( if we dare to do so) is by how well they love.

Perhaps the dreamer is more able and willing to be guided by their heart and not their head.

Some say, it's the dreamers and poets who 'shake' the world.

We could all do with a bit of creative shaking, so let's dream on and follow our dreams!

COMPOSURE

2011-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Being composed is a state of peace; a result of good thoughts and actions.

When life hits us with difficulties and challenges, it's good practise to take time out to relax, even for a moment.

So easy to become disturbed by the world around us. We can be led astray by our own interests and desires.

The person who can reach a state of composure is someone who listens more to their heart than their head.

What does our heart tell us?

Surely it's all about love and being gentle, both with ourselves and others. The person who is composed is like a rock of stability. Others can find support and encouragement with such a person.

Christ says, 'Come to Me... '

Let's do just that, then we can be a light for others.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-01T06:11:00.000-08:00

To all who are linked into the Servants of Love Community web,

theservantsoflove.com

may we wish you a very happy and healthy New Year 2011.

Time has such a habit of running away... we tell ourselves that we have plenty of time to follow our dreams, yet have we?

NOW is a good time to get started. Often this is the hardest part to do, simply to begin our new habits and endeavours.

Whatever they might be, all we have to do is lift the 'little foot' / take a step forward and we have begun!

FAMILY TIES

2010-12-28T06:26:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a good time to strengthen family ties.

We make time for each other and learn how to accommodate each others' needs.

There is a wonderful opportunity here to know each other better, and learn about the new ways that each person's life is taking shape.

This time is so precious. Let's open our hearts and minds to each other in this Holy Season.

DESOLATION

2010-12-28T06:05:00.000-08:00

Today, being the feast of the Holy Innocents, is a good day to reflect on what desolation is all about.

When we lose someone we lose, we can be desolate. Grief fills the void where love existed.

When we lose our self-esteem, the lose can be almost as much. There is a grieving taking place within our hearts. Joy has evaporated and we can be left with feelings of desolation.

Often, times like this take place when we are vulnerable. We may be sick or suffering the loss of the good opinion of another person.

The strong-minded person will say, 'blow' it away. It's only a feeling.

And yet, what is life made up of if not feelings?

Without vulnerability we may never learn the depths of love. We could easily remain as a 'hard shell', someone with an outer cover that no one can penetrate.

So, feelings of desolation can be a certain kind of gift. God is stepping into our lives and teaching us how to be inwardly strong.

The person who can withstand pain and still turn to God and believe that they are loved, this person is indeed open to the Grace of God.

SECURITY

2010-12-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

Perhaps, more that anything, people like to feel secure. This is both a good and a bad thing.

When we look for security, it is possible that we may be misguided in where and how to find it.

The insecure person will seek security in authority, in someone stronger than themselves. Then they can relax and be free from worry or decision-making.

This is not always a good thing, yet perhaps all of us are insecure in some way or other.

We need to find a Hero, someone who can lead us and guide us.

Well, we have the Perfect Hero in Christ. Our Faith will help us to see that we have no need to be afraid. He has promised to always be with us.

This 'insecurity' we experience can be a spring-board to becoming a stronger, secure person.

By Faith we believe. By using our Faith, we learn to grow and develop as a sound person. We are guided by Love, not fear.

Yes, true security will be found in our willingness to keep close to our Loving Saviour.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2010-12-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a time for family and friends, and also time for getting to know ourselves.

For me, this has certainly been a mixed Christmas. Perhaps it had to do with being unwell.

A bad head cold knocked me out, physically, mentally and spiritually. I wanted to be well and get on with making plans for having a wonderful Christmas.

Instead, I winded up nursing my cold and unable to help with preparations and all the many jobs that needed to be done.

God was not asking anything from me except to relax and allow my uncomfortable state to take its toll.

How easy it is to have ideas and plans of what God is asking of us. Yet, like the good Father that He is, He only wants us to be happy and respond to the inspirations that come our way each day.

How simple life would be if we could listen to the Gentle Voice that speaks to our hearts.

Being weak, just like the little baby Jesus, leaves room for God in our lives.

JUST A SPECK!

2010-12-20T00:32:00.000-08:00

Astronomers teach us that the Earth is small compared to the Universe, just a little ball spinning around the Sun.

Then we look at the Earth and the billions of people who live on our planet and see that we are only a speck on the face of the Earth.

We are so small that it's hard to imagine how insignificant we are.

And yet, we are told that even for just one of us, Christ would have redeemed the world.

We may be beyond little, yet in the Eyes of God we are magnificent. We are part of His Creation, His Masterpiece.

Only Faith can teach us how to have an understanding of what all this means; God loves this little speck that is me!

Be kind to one another

2010-12-18T09:49:00.000-08:00

When we look at the world at large, we can see many human faults. Even in ourselves there are many short-comings / steps we need to take to be free from pride and arrogance, or even stupidity.

One of the best forms of freedom is to be taken up with helping others. When we are kind to one another, we draw grace from Heaven.

God is so pleased by us when we respond to the invitations that come our way, so much so that He often steps in and guides us, intuitively.

The power that comes from kindness is the Power of God.

We become graced with His Presence, both in ourselves and those we are kind to.

Be kind, always

PENANCE

2010-12-13T02:30:00.000-08:00

Perhaps none of us like to do Penance, to suffer, and yet it is often when we do 'violence' to ourselves that our peace of mind increases in leaps and bounds.

Penance is just another word for discipline.

Ask any successful athlete or business person and they will tell you that discipline is the key to their success. No pain / no gain!

To deprive ourselves of something / to do penance, makes us a stronger, better person.

Try it out today. Find someway to practise penance and see the immediate result. Be brave!

PREPARE !

2010-12-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

Most of our lives are lived in preparation for one thing or another.

If we are planning to go on a journey, then it becomes essential to be prepared.

Everything takes time, therefore time is precious.

Each one of us know that we will make a final journey. If we have faith and believe in the goodness of God, then we can look forward to Heaven.

The love we have for others will be our passport to a place where only Love exists.

Now is the time to reflect and consider how much we are motivated by love, and realise that's all that matters, to love.

Prepare now. Be 'heart' conscious.

MINDFULNESS

2010-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:00

To value each moment is a great standard to have.

Lately, we are reminded of a way of being - mindfulness - which is a great help in putting value on all we do.

Being mindful is a given state of mind where we practise patience and awareness in all our actions and thoughts.

The saints of old spoke a lot about the practise of the Presence of God.

How mindful we would be if we had this awareness that God is present with us, always. We are never alone.

'I am with you, always, even to the end of the world.'

ABIDE IN ME

2010-12-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

When we are troubled we go to the One who helps us. We don't need to have answers or the gift of reading the future.

We simply need to trust that He who says, 'Abide in Me' will always be there for us.

This is a good test of our Faith, to believe that we are supported by Grace, and those we love are being looked after in the best possible way.

Suffering is difficult, yet suffering linked with Love is made possible.

Our Faith is tested, each day. Sometimes more than we expect.

Yet it is with Faith that we are able to Abide in Him who loves us.

SNOWED IN!

2010-12-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

It was a magical morning, walking to Mass in the snow.

Afterwards, we had a minor snowball fight, just like children. It was a time for having fun.

Now, looking out at the darkness and constant snow, I feel as a grown-up wondering about the danger of icy roads.

Yet, deep inside each one of us is that little child, more aware of fun than danger.

Being childlike doesn't make us reckless, simply positive and able to handle awkward situations with care and laughter.

So, how do we handle the challenge of the present moment ?

We can look for a solution and play the game of life, or bemoan the hardships we have to endure.

Life without a challenge would make us weak and dull, whereas the person who embraces the 'cross' becomes a happier and better person.

Snowed in? Keep a shovel handy!

Like a Child

2010-11-28T04:53:00.000-08:00

Awhile ago, my brother Michael and wife,Goretti, visited me in the RDS with their grandchild, Annabelle.
I was so pleased to see her, such a beautiful child, and so interested in people and life (plus a special interest in bags!)
We had a cup together while she had her special baby-food, already prepared by mummy, Niamh.

I watched her watch us. She has such an intelligent mind, interested and able to focus on all that is happening around her. Annabelle is a great listener as she is learning both English and Belgium, so listening is more important to her than talking.

When the musicians began to play, she insisted on being out of her pram and as she watched them, she swayed to and fro to the beat of the music.

Did I hear a little hum? Maybe she'll be a singer too.

How wonderful it is to be a child, with an open and learning mind to take in all the love that is in this precious world of ours.

No wonder St. Therese spoke about spiritual childhood.

We learn from the best, especially the young and innocent, to be childlike.

LIKE T

2010-11-28T03:48:00.000-08:00

A POSITIVE LIFE

2010-11-25T00:21:00.000-08:00

To live a positive life is dependent on how much we value peace of mind. We can survive / make do or we can live a life, full of positive steps.

Each day is an invitation to become a more rounded person; someone who is stepping forward in life and open to change.

Living a positive life means having a willingness to see beyond the immediate action / situation, whatever it might be.

We may not fully understand things that happen, yet if we are willing to relax and apply a positive solution to the situation, then answers will come. We will develop an enlightened mind.

A positive life is the way to true happiness!

FAMILY

2010-11-22T02:55:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, I visited my family. One of my nephews, Eoin, is emigrating to Australia. He and a friend are going for one year to Perth.

This is a big adventure for him, moving away from family and friends, yet he can't wait to go.

We celebrated the family get-together with Mass, then back to the house for a feast of food and plenty of chatting.

Now and then I stood aside and admired this wonderful family of mine and all the efforts made to live a happy life.

We each go our separate ways in life, being aware of the calling that leads us to fulfillment. Our very differences are part of our unity.

May God bless us all.

RENEW!

2010-11-19T09:41:00.000-08:00

Today is a good day for me to renew myself, to focus on what makes me a better person and learn to avoid all that would make me less.

Of course, to be able to renew ourselves and make changes, depends on how aware we are of our shortcomings and weaknesses.

Being weak is not a disadvantage, yet it can be a realisation of how imperfect we are. No need to worry. Nobody is perfect.

We all have flaws which can actually help us to be a better, more compassionate person.

When I become aware of my short-comings, then I learn to have more understanding and empathy with others when they fall short.

Renewal is all about facing the truth of who we are, without pretence.

If I am to be a better person, then I need help. And, who better to help me than He who loves me.

'I can do all things in Him who strengthens me'.

SURPRISE

2010-11-14T04:45:00.001-08:00

It's such a lovely thing to be surprised; to receive a gift or a visit from a good friend etc.

Today was a surprise for me, beginning with a cold 3 degrees morning, then suddenly the sun came out and I enjoyed a lovely visit to Travelahawk beach. Basking in the sunshine I just closed my eyes and imagined it was the middle of summer.

When we look at everything that comes our way as coming from God's love, then we can be easily surprised and delighted with the gifts we receive.

Sometimes, our gifts can be wrapped in pain; not exactly what we want at this precise moment. Yet, just wait awhile and let God step in.

There is no one better at surprising us than He.

A Positive Child

2010-11-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

For most of us, the idea of being totally positive may well be a challenge, especially when things go wrong.

Yet, what better challenge could we be faced with. The positive minded person is imbued with a natural wisdom that allows them to be like a child, living in an adult world.

There is no end to the amount of things that we could worry about. So, why not turn things around and examine how many things can and will go right for us.

A wise person said that each problem contains its own solution.

If we are willing to take this literally, then we have an adventurous life ahead of us.

Let's be like children and make a game out of life. Pick out whatever we regard as a problem and allow time for the solution to come to mind.

When you think of it, time is the gift we have, and the best 'toy' to play with.

Let's be positive and let our inner child jump out and surprise us.

Count our Blessings

2010-11-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it's only when we lose something, we begin to realise how blessed we are

The loss of my voice is so strange for me. When I had my cold I learned to relax and take it easy. Yet, having no voice makes me aware of how much I depend on it.

The simple act of using the phone has become a 'no-no'. Taking part in our daily, round-the-table discussions, only as a listener can be painful at times.

Doctor says laryngitis. Take a tablet and plenty of hot drinks. Hopefully it will come back, soon.

This is a good time to leave logic aside. The human body is so complex. Even scientists don't fully understand it's magnificence.

Our faith can carry us beyond our understanding and help us to become aware of how wonderful life is, based on the mechanics of the body. And, this is only the 'outside'.

If we could, with faith, glance inward to the majesty of the soul, made in the likeness of God, how blessed we would be indeed.

Often loss becomes a gain, especially when we take time out to count our blessings.

THE GREAT SILENCE!

2010-11-07T09:08:00.000-08:00

Since Tuesday, I have been without the proper use of my vocal cords; laryngitis, the doctor says. Relax and rest; could take another few days before I recover my voice.

So easy to panic when something happens that we are unaccustomed to; like an ache or pain in the middle of the night. For some reason we can imagine we are dying or at least fatally ill.

This is where the power of the positive comes into its own.

If we practise living a positive life, and believe in the power of focusing on good rather than bad, then we can relax and know that God is behind all that happens to us.

We may not know in the present moment why certain things happen, yet in the depths of our heart we do know we have nothing to fear.

If God appears to be silent, on the outside, be sure and certain that great things are happening on the inside.

Silence is golden.

THE FINAL JOURNEY

2010-11-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today, being All Souls day, is a good day to ponder on our final journey. This will be when we say goodbye to the life we know on earth and move on to our heavenly home with God.

This may sound gloomy and yet, this is the greatest and most exciting journey of our lives.

We get the chance to be with the One who moves us, a Loving Creator who only cares for our well-being.

At times it can appear to be an unreality to think about death, about leaving the ones we love, and moving on.

Maybe that's why we sometimes cling to what we know and become afraid of change.

For the spiritually-minded person, death is only a passing to a better life where happiness and love is found in abundance.

We often hear the expression, Let go, and Let GOD...

Perhaps this is what it's all about, letting go.

God's Presence

2010-10-30T00:25:00.000-07:00

We have a commandment to love our neighbour, whoever they may be,

because we are all made in the image and likeness of God.

When I am kind to you, it is God I love. When you are kind to me, God is the recipient.

Why is this?

The answer is more simple than we may realise. Present in each one of us is the Presence of God. Often we only see 'skin-deep' and fail to experience this wonderful aspect of God, living in us.

We gain an awareness of how and why some people are able to be heroic, able to put others before their own needs, even to the extent of giving up their lives for others.

So,simply put, when we love we open our heart and soul to God's Presence, in ourselves and others.

BE POSITIVE!

2010-10-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

A positive-minded person is one who is open to change. This means having a willingness to embrace each new day, positively, whatever challenges may come our way.

When we have a a positive disposition we blot out the negative and allow our creative mind to guide us. Therefore, intuitively we do what is best for us and those around us.

Of course, we don't suddenly become totally positive. There is a certain amount of work to be done, as we are aptly told, 'Enough to the day is the evil thereof'.

So, a simple protection to any form of negativity comes about when we 'let go', give up all pre-conceived ideas and opinions. Most important of all is to ignore any feelings of fear.

We owe it to ourselves to grow in becoming a more positive person, someone who is able to step away from the dark side and walk in the light.

'I am the LIGHT of the world. Follow Me.'

A GENTLE HEART

2010-10-22T11:37:00.000-07:00

To have a gentle heart is dependent on how tuned in we are to the present moment and the inspirations we receive.

A gentle heart is one that focuses on people and has awareness of the individual needs that each person may have.

Only God knows how weak, or strong, another person is. We can only surmise by 'reading' with our heart.

Therefore, if we have a gentle heart we will be able to respond with love to the needs of others. This is also a way of responding to our own needs.

Love begets love.

A gentle heart is open to God's Loving Will, now and always.

BE THE BEST WE CAN BE

2010-10-20T04:07:00.000-07:00

Most of us have certain goals; places we want to go to / things we want to accomplish etc. And this is good.

Whatever works to get us out of bed and up and doing, is a positive state to be in. Yet, maybe we can examine what it is we are interested in and find out if it's the best that we can be.

If I want to be a pop star and spend all my time and resources aimed at that goal, it would be good for me to find out first if I can sing!

The same applies for most interests we have, to find out first if this if the very best for us.

A spiritually-minded person will have a structured way of knowing the best for them, in focusing on God's Will, and what God is inviting one to do each day.

Whatever makes us happy and lovable is usually a good indication of what is best for us. If we are happy in our job whatever it might be, then we are doing our best. As soon as we become unhappy, then we know it's time to move on, or find out if we are meant to be doing things differently.

Time changes us and the happy person will be able and willing to change.

We owe it to ourselves to be the best we can be.

CONFIDENCE

2010-10-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

The ability to have confidence in ourselves is very much related to our belief system.

When I am confident, I know it's because I believe I am loved by God. This love helps me to realise my potential as a person, and also makes me aware of how important it is to love.

A confident person is able and willing to reach out to others. There is no fear of criticism; no fear of being undermined by the weaknesses of others. And also, no fear of one's own weaknesses.

Confidence springs from the faith we have. A truly confident person is positive and well able to bring good out of all that happens.

Confidence is the key to a happy life.

GLIMPSE of PARADISE

2010-10-10T03:17:00.000-07:00

The opportunity came my way to spend a week with friends on the island of Skiathos in Greece.

This was my first introduction to Greek culture. We visited many of the splendid monasteries on the island, enjoying a glimpse into traditional Greek Orthodox religion.

The Chapels are very ornate and beautifully decorated with icons depicting Christ and the blessed virgin and the saints.

I was especially impressed with an icon of the Virgin mother, laced with silver and bearing an appealing smile. However when I tried to capture the image on my phone, I was cautioned not to do so.

I can well understand the Orthodox priests who have thousands of tourists coming their way every summer. They are polite, always, and for women who might forget to dress in a manner suitable for attending Church, they provide lovely colourful shawls.

Now that I am home again, I appreciate our open churches with Mass provided daily, at most churches.

Religion can be a form of art, yet Art will never replace religion.