THE WHOLE TRUTH, SO HELP ME, GOD

It can be interesting to watch a film where a court-case is being portrayed. At least one person will be asked to place their hand on the Bible and swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God.

Could I put my hand on the Bible and swear that all I have said and done, during the day, was the whole truth, so help me God? Could you? Not that we are liars or cheaters, but it can be so easy to ‘colour’ the truth, to tell things from our point of view, favouring ourselves. Perhaps we are not even aware when we do so.

To speak the truth, plainly, objectively, is the sign of a free person - free from prejudice and open to love. Perhaps that is the key - LOVE.
The truthful person is both loveable and loving, with no hidden agendas.
God is Truth, and Love. When we live a truthful life, we are enveloped in love and become like Him in whose image we are created.

THE FLAG

Although not a ‘follower’ as such, I couldn’t help being effected by Ireland when it took place in the World Cup. Flags and banners everywhere, on cars and windows and even in the hands of babies in their prams. Such a warm, excited and happy feeling by everyone, especially whenever we did well. Employers in general, facilitated employees so the games would not be missed. High enterprise took a back-seat and enjoyment came to the fore-front.
This, to me, is Irish spirit at its best. .
I know there has been a down-side when drink and over-high spirits have taken a negative turn, yet on the whole Ireland has proved itself a good competitor and a happy nation.
All we need is a goal and we can reach the sky!
Perhaps this also applies to our individual lives. When we are motivated and happy, we too can reach the stars. After all, God is on our side.

QUIET TIME

The value of quiet time is self-evident. Just watch a mother with her child, holding, touching, looking… no words are necessary.

This quiet time is enveloped in love.

For most of us in our busy lives, we may forget the value of taking time out to appreciate those we love. No expensive presents are needed.

The gift we give is ourselves, our time, our interest.

In the spiritual life, we are invited to take time out, for ourselves.

To show appreciation for the gift of life, the uniqueness of our being, how special we are. Strangely enough, it’s only when we are loving, in giving and doing, that we learn to appreciate the value of our own uniqueness.

We are special, a once-off masterpiece, created by the Master himself.