Inspiration

Be the Change

Reflections for contemplative living

True forgiveness changes who we are. It makes us more generous. How do you allow yourself to be changed and shaped by it? Can you put aside grudges and judgment, and pray for the needs of those who have hurt you? As we melt into forgiveness, our hardened hearts sing again and cry out with joy.

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Inspiration

How Do You Remember?

Reflections for contemplative living

Recently as I’ve slowed down and am listening to the nudges of my heart, I’ve been drawn towards creativity. This has included getting some new plants for my home and with new zeal I’m trying to keep them alive.

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Inspiration

Two Our Fathers and a Hail Mary

Reflections for contemplative living

The other day I was in the dentist’s office, getting my teeth cleaned, and a new electric toothbrush caught my eye. Not only was it guaranteed to get your teeth cleaned, it had a two minute timer that would ensure one brushed their teeth the appropriate amount of time.

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Inspiration

The Gift of A Son

Reflections for contemplative living

One of the most challenging and rewarding experiences in my life is my vocation as a parent. I’ve been blessed beyond measure with two beautiful children and three bonus children, one of which was born twenty-eight years ago today.

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Inspiration

Made for Mission

Reflections for contemplative living

We are sent by God, the father of mercy, to distribute this treasure to those in need. The works of mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor in his spiritual and bodily necessities. Instructing, advising, consoling, and comforting are spiritual works of mercy, as are forgiving and bearing wrongs patiently. St. Thomas Aquinas defined mercy as “the compassion in our hearts for another person’s misery, a compassion which drives us to do what we can to help him.”  Are you a missionary of mercy? 

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Inspiration

The Call to Holiness

Reflections for contemplative living

The faithful are called to the fullness of the Christian life.

We can reach this fullness of our call to holiness by pursuing the good and practicing true charity in all of our actions throughout our day, whether at work, home with our family or driving on the freeway.  To be truly charitable, we must will the good of others and for Catholics, the ultimate good is God.

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Inspiration

True Love

Reflections for contemplative living

One day a while back I was struck by the notion of wanting to “learn love.” I’d hit a wall with my teenage daughter who was struggling with her mental health and the love I was giving her wasn’t enough. The pain of this situation drew me towards my own transformation. And what a gift it was. 

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