tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67872924933558455322024-03-19T03:25:44.237-04:00Holy Motherhood! *So let there be children!*Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-22753367671285656922018-03-22T11:27:00.002-04:002018-03-22T11:27:37.765-04:00March For Life Instagram Takeover #WDSD PART 1<div style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">
<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">A Mother’s Heart</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Becoming a mom to a child with Down syndrome is quite an experience. It is full of so many emotions; good, scary, doubtful, disbelief, and fear. Most women who are expecting are “expecting” a healthy child who will develop into little prodigies that change the world. They want to see their child excel in school, on the field throughout a sports career, and become self-confident individuals that can depend on themselves. This is a great dream for any parent, any mother. But what about those mothers who hear the words, “Your child may have Down Syndrome,” or, “Your child appears to have characteristics of Down Syndrome.” Then what?</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">I was 32 when I gave birth to Sebastian. I was never expecting this kind of scenario for myself, my family, or my child. I had a great pregnancy, an easy delivery, but then there was the suspicion of Down Syndrome. In only a few moments, before I could begin to even allow my emotions of elation and joy fill my heart, those words penetrated deep and got to the center of my heart first. I was still lying on the bed, adjusting to the fact the contractions were over, hoping Sebastian wouldn’t need supplemental oxygen at my arms much longer when I handed him to the NICU team </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">and then</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> I heard those words. </span><img class="s2" src="x-apple-ql-id://73603908-CADB-4A86-A331-2BEA86A1D44B/x-apple-ql-magic/B5F85457-B76D-40F1-8CFE-F50E34E27CFE.jpg" style="height: 224px; width: 168px;" /><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Boom. The shock was real. The disbelief was real. The questions…. The unknown, was real. Of course, this is exactly how most mothers I come to learn, feel too, because most of us are not educated well on this diagnosis. And it is a shame. But, in that moment, I had hope. As a Catholic woman, I immediately turned to God and told him to talk to me. I needed him to tell me something so that my heart could be at peace, and I could find my trust again in the Lord in this situation.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">I had no idea that he would tell me so clearly, exactly what I needed to hear. I had no idea where it would come from. But then, a powerful sensation within my chest told me to look in His Word at the time Sebastian was born. I was surprised. How would this make sense? I quickly asked my midwife what time he was born, and she said, “4:17” (pm).</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">My sister in law immediately began searching </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Scripture, and</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">found only one place where anything made sense. It was 2 Corinthians 4:17: </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">“ For</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> this light, momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">weight of glory beyond all comparison.” I knew immediately what the Lord was asking of me, reminding me, and telling me. It was the fact that even though this seemed like an unfortunate and difficult situation, it would bring about great glory for God, and I must trust Him, and was instantly at peace, and quiet in my heart. I was able to accept this calling to raise one of His angels very well, and I became honored. Yes, honored. I looked at Sebastian one last time as I held him, before the NICU staff would take him to the NICU for however long that’d be, and I saw clearly in his little round face that the Down Syndrome was very apparent. I broke down after holding back tears. I knew in my heart that this little baby needed my full love, affection, kindness, and faith in him. I quickly through the arms of my heart up to </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">God, and</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> asked him to take away any stain to the purest love for Sebastian away; that He would make my love for Sebastian just like His. I didn’t want to miss a single moment of the JOY that I knew would come. I wasn’t going to allow my lack of knowledge or education on his diagnosis ruin the love that Sebastian deserved. I have never looked back, except to thank God with all my heart, for giving me that small token of his assurance, and the love for Sebastian I wouldn’t change for the world. </span><img class="s3" src="x-apple-ql-id://81F1EF52-3997-4C81-B8BA-C83BFFDCCA51/x-apple-ql-magic/0DE4E988-B723-4CEF-9175-65E1FD6F5629.jpg" style="height: 159px; width: 212px;" /></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Holding Sebastian one last time before heading to NICU</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The NICU stay is difficult. It is heart wrenching. But no child is ever perfect or without trials. Many are misinformed and believed that a child with extra needs and/or Down syndrome are at a “life” disadvantage. Many believe they will suffer all their lives, that they will not know joy or happiness. It’s such a lie. One thing I stated very early on, was this fact. You do not have to be a rocket scientist to have value to your life or to be successful. God creates many kinds of people: some are ingenious people, some are laborers of the trade, some are business oriented, some are multimillion dollar stars, some are prayer warriors, some are clergy members, saints, and some, are merely gifts of love that remind us what life is </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">really all</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> about; to share with us what unconditional love truly is. Sebastian is one of these people. And he is happy. And he loves life. He is active, and playful, and his laugh and smile are enough to melt your toughest heart on a bad day. Every single trial that brings about a new milestone is worth it. Every. Single. One. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Finding true love within what we coin as a “disability” begins with surrendering what you “think” is perfect and should be </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">perfect, to</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> what simply is and loving it with all your heart. Once I refused to allow my fear control that love, the doors to this life </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">were swung</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> wide open with the greatest joy I have yet to see as a parent. I’m not saying that my other children do not provide this for my mother’s heart, but when you see how hard Sebastian </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">has to</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> work to reach his goals, no one tried harder than him, and so much is to be appreciated and celebrated! And I’ll add this: It is so entertaining and exciting to watch him show us he proves the stigma wrong every day. The potential is there. The motivation is there. We merely </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">have to</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> fuel it. Have faith in your child! Be excited for him! Embrace the adventure knowing you are his world! It’s ok to have someone depend on you. It may take a little longer, but the journey is still actively happening! Milestones can be reached! </span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Momma's Pride and Joy</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">My life is so much more fulfilling because of Sebastian </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">and I</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">am so glad that God has blessed us with him. If </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">anything</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> ever happened to him, my heart would crumble and a piece would die. He is a breathing force of life to mine. He gives me a reason to try as hard as he does on any given day. He loves to share his friendly fist bump with anyone who’s willing to give one back. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Watching Sebastian grow has been such a miracle for me to experience every day. His first smile, his first time holding up his head, sitting up, crawling, walking, saying momma. . . have all meant so much more to me than I could have ever thought. My other kids just “did” those things. But, I wonder if we often take for granted those moments. Sebastian taught me to appreciate every single achievement. I’ve never been so excited to watch him do his thing. He keeps life interesting and rewarding on so many levels for me. I love his cuddles, his hugs, his love. I love how excited he is when he accomplishes something he tries so hard to do!</span></div>
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<img class="s7" src="x-apple-ql-id://DA609C20-377D-4CB7-85B7-C76D0011FB6C/x-apple-ql-magic/E8971233-6D4A-494D-A056-39BA167060B7.jpg" style="height: 172px; width: 229px;" /><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span><img class="s8" src="x-apple-ql-id://F54A0CA4-2668-40D4-9A66-EA6142D2FDEE/x-apple-ql-magic/A5FD3FFF-AEC2-4CE4-B9D9-5957D11A7061.jpg" style="height: 228px; width: 170px;" /><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Sebastian’s first plane ride and the stewardess </span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">was</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> so moved by his very sweetness she was thankful for meeting him, and gave him wings.</span></span></div>
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<img class="s9" src="x-apple-ql-id://105106D8-59CD-40FF-9FF4-10F2177D4B2A/x-apple-ql-magic/A87B2E51-BE9A-4841-AC51-2C0366AC239D.jpg" style="height: 225px; width: 168px;" /><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Sebastian is our little angel</span></span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">He loves to be read to and loves his books! He wants to learn! And he is so smart!</span></span></div>
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<img class="s11" src="x-apple-ql-id://58AA6F6B-024B-47BC-831D-396164EAF895/x-apple-ql-magic/C5E2AE53-0135-4166-8BFD-756A40BFC1B2.jpg" style="height: 220px; width: 146px;" /></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Sebastian has a </span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">fanpage</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> on Facebook!</span></span></div>
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<img class="s12" src="x-apple-ql-id://8B8DF45F-1E5C-4B0B-9366-A4D6DB258B52/x-apple-ql-magic/93EF3A7E-388A-4878-A96D-0B2654A8D3B5.jpg" style="height: 174px; width: 232px;" /></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Seeing these little handprints on the school wall after he joined PreK made me cry. I was so incredibly PROUD of him. My life would be so very less "full" without what these "Little Hands" have brought into my life. It is why I fight so hard to #</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">SaveBabieswithDownSyndrome</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> Parents just don’t realize the gift in a child with DS.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Sebastian at his very first dental checkup. Such a good boy.</span></span></div>
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<img class="s14" src="x-apple-ql-id://01BF144F-446C-410C-BC4D-7DB99927D06B/x-apple-ql-magic/61A9A36D-5D69-4A98-9E71-010BD9DE2B67.jpg" style="height: 200px; width: 268px;" /> <img class="s16" src="x-apple-ql-id://5241146E-CCE2-4086-89BC-15C87E780AB5/x-apple-ql-magic/AB1D3129-A32B-488F-BA80-ABB0388F0D7F.jpg" style="height: 336px; width: 449px;" /></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">This was my very first March </span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">For</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> Life. Our sign got so much attention. Sebastian's precious face shows the value of life with DS. #</span></span><span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">SaveBabieswithDownSyndrome</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="color: #44546a; font-size: 9px; font-style: italic; line-height: 10.800000190734863px;"><span class="bumpedFont20" style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Our little Stud Muffin</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">As a mother to another mother contemplating abortion of their baby with DS, I’m asking you to have faith in your child. Allow this child the opportunity to shine for you. If you pour all your heart into this baby, the amount of love you get back with be 100-fold, and you will find a joyful and fulfilling adventure ahead! The support is out there, come and find us! As one mother among thousands in the same boat with this diagnosis, we offer great support to you. You are not alone. Step aboard the happy train! </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">As a mother to other mothers who aren’t as well educated on Down Syndrome, I’d offer this token: trust the mothers and fathers and families who live this journey every day. Being fearful and accepting only </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">half truths</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and deceptions of what DS really is will leave you full of uncertainty even more. Educate yourselves well with the truth of those who have benefitted from the joys these babies have brought into our lives. Trust us. We are the most accurate testimonies! </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">I cannot say enough here, so that is why I am writing </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">a book</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> for all mommas out there to have access to the truth and detailed life with a child with Down Syndrome and to lay your worries and fears to rest so that you too, can have the same confidence I had in the very beginning of my journey. I want to help you turn those fears into joyful fulfilment!</span></div>
Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-50274581851312756652018-02-22T17:17:00.001-05:002018-02-22T17:17:22.136-05:00Prolife Ride of a lifetimeHi friends! Wow. I’ve had such a fantastic opportunity recently to share my son’s story... Sebastian, my preciousness with Down syndrome, has been a little famous recently. I’ve never fully shared his story, but I’d like to post my interview with Live Action here. I will try to add some more to the blog eventually. Enjoy. I will keep fighting for all babies’ rights to life, especially those who are most disadvantaged and targeted for abortion.<br />
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<a href="https://www.liveaction.org/news/margaret-black-down-syndrome-babies/">https://www.liveaction.org/news/margaret-black-down-syndrome-babies/</a><br />
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<br />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-91352011713986676572017-08-29T18:08:00.000-04:002017-08-29T18:08:06.821-04:00Allow God to Take them into the DesertAs I sit here wishing to share my thoughts because it has been a while since I have said much of my own, I am in a state of blankness. So much going on, being super busy, and just needing to rest in between it all is about all I have right now .... But I know there are morsels of grace I could share. So I will try, and keep it simple and short.<br />
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Today is the Feast of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. What a memorial. John was the final prophet to introduce Our Lord before He was to made known to us. His wisdom and holy life of preparation for His coming is an example beyond what can be understood, although we can attempt to understand it. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpznmLpPh_0bnkGgJWpl1LPV-mIgE2cvxYyrRTLra-Fl62vg-4jvC3D-l2Ph85-w-9psmbWbKDPIFZbqESSg-Ecgfnh0UNgz78f55akcVwQ3dJ3Cvpy8nxS7YAoSeiDNuPmJqLjSrMWXI/s1600/360px-Thorn_Tree_Sossusvlei_Namib_Desert_Namibia_Luca_Galuzzi_2004a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="360" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpznmLpPh_0bnkGgJWpl1LPV-mIgE2cvxYyrRTLra-Fl62vg-4jvC3D-l2Ph85-w-9psmbWbKDPIFZbqESSg-Ecgfnh0UNgz78f55akcVwQ3dJ3Cvpy8nxS7YAoSeiDNuPmJqLjSrMWXI/s320/360px-Thorn_Tree_Sossusvlei_Namib_Desert_Namibia_Luca_Galuzzi_2004a.jpg" width="320" /></a>John's sole purpose it seems, was to prepare the way for the Lord. As I think of all the new college-goers, and students coming into the new school year (my kids, and my sister who just went to college last week and got moved in), I can't help but think of how John's endurance to serve the Lord first is also an example we must heed our attention to and continue to practice in faith. I was talking to my daughter today--- and it's been difficult for her to figure out what she wants to do in life as an adult, in college, etc... I of course, encouraged her to pray and seek the guidance of God in her decisions. Pretty basic, right? But as I sit here and put these two things together, I am coming to the purpose of what to write today. John knew our Lord from the very beginning of his existence, when he jumped in the womb of his mother as the precious sound of Mary's call to Elizabeth. John also chose a path of self-mortification through his fasting days in the desert on locusts and honey. We are called to do the similar act of self-mortification and fasting as we are molded into people God wishes us to become. So many temptations rouse our fickleness and distract us from His Plan. We can get caught up in ourselves so easily, and lose that sight... We focus on our plans, and reward ourselves by working so hard, and forget to credit God for the gifts we receive, and we become engulfed in selfishness. The Vice of all vices. The virtue is what we must hold true to, doing the right thing, and continuing to pray, so that we, in a sense, allowing our efforts to do God's Will become our self-mortification. <br />
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John said to make straight the paths for the Lord. The path must be well lit, (which comes from our faithfulness and prayerful hearts), and we must not lose sight of His Will for us, by prayer, the Sacraments and sacrifice, to remain ON the path, and self-mortification so that we make the paths straight, where Christ can join us in our Journey. When I say "we", I mean us and our kiddos must learn this lesson, daily. <br />
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John suffered death, a horrible beheading, for his love our Lord and His Will. He died what we think nowadays a humiliating death, as we are often afraid to be at the mercy of those who persecute us. So we chose to blend in, hiding our Christianity in a way. We hope our kids resist this temptation, and choose to serve the Lord vigilantly. We all hope our kids will choose this virtuous and holy path, but it is not typically what we see from our kids at first. I struggle with the baffling reality that as my kids are aging, I cannot "read" them so easily. Its frustrating, and we want the lines of communication to stay open, and we question their motives, their behavior, their path. <br />
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Here is the catch: But, we must allow God to take them to desert. For, in the desert, they learn to know Gods Will, and the beginnings of wisdom to know God's Will are being shaped. Some of them seem to have to be there a long time, where we as parents wonder how much longer before we see the fruit, and the victory over the temptations, trials, and tests. As mothers, we have to have the kind of faith in them that we want to see them have. Eventually, they will come back into the fruitful world and know the difference. Either way, God's Will <em><strong>will </strong></em>come to be made manifest. All the learning will amount to something God will use to mold our kids. The desert is a GOOD place to cultivate holiness. We must remember we are raising Saints first, scholars second. <br />
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May Our Lord and St. John the Baptist be with you and your children in this new school year. <br />
JMJ<br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-27882316371171738822017-05-21T22:07:00.003-04:002017-05-21T22:25:02.324-04:00Love them the way I loved the cross<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">Earlier this morning after Mass, we had an amazing opportunity to see Father in Confession. As I was sitting there, contemplating my own struggles as a mom, the things I face from the scrutiny of the world, or the challenges that seem overwhelming, the Lord spoke to me and said this. "Love them the way I loved the cross! When it hurts, remember this: the cross splintered Me, and I embraced it. The crown of thorns pushed into My Head and I said nothing, but prayed forgiveness upon them. They pierced My Heart and My Precious Blood of Mercy poured out upon their faces." </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">I of course, got teary, Recalling how Christ chose His Cross out of love for ME. Nothing was going to deter Him from His Mission. And oh, how it sounds easier said than done for mommas to do this... But He kept telling me that I must trust Him. Especially with all those worries of my heart. I entrust my kids to Him. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">I of course, was thinking where the cause is for all my downfall and sin in terms of motherhood. It's a little of everything. Marriage, kids, the world out there, the laundry in here, the list could go on. So many responsibilities can just plain drain a momma out. Being a mom to the teenagers, and then babies at the same time is beginning to reveal a great divide for me. I remember my kids all being babies. Now I have spunky teenagers reminding me of what fun is at that age. And I'm stuck in the middle. I'm mom yes, but I'm also 35. I'm not even over the hill yet. My heart still wants to have fun too. Part of me also still needs to be mom- the romodel-rule-making-don't-look-at-me-like-that-mom. And part of me wants to have babies, still. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">A momma has to keep a clean house. Even more so when she needs to be organized and able to pull off homeschooling at the same time. Chores have to be done everyday. And she has to be the one to pull her kids off their devices at times to do them. All of these things can be very productive ways to bring peace into the home- or the opposite. It can start a whirlwind of complaining or fighting. This is where it's hard for every mom and dad. The strain of the kids pushing the boundaries and testing the waters makes for a tired momma. When they don't let up and submit to your authority, is when it's tougher than ever. My struggles are my lack </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">of patience with the Lord at times to work miracles and make me have perfect kids now, and </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">not trusting Him long enough for me to remember to keep calm and know that they will eventually turn out just fine, as long as I persevere. Getting flustered and angry is too simple a response that I end up needing to go to confession for because I had failed to be at peace. Let's face it- we all struggle and we probably can all relate to this exact scenario. The hurt that cuts when you have a child defying you and after everything you've done to bring him or her up properly. It's a setback momentarily. This is what I felt when the Lord said what He said to me. He also reminded me, "Trust Me. Pray for the Grace to trust Me and remain at peace."</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">He also said, "Pray that you respond to this grace to love your children in the midst of the chaos when they are making poor choices. Bring them to Me. You want to embrace family prayer time? Teach them to pray the way you like to pray. Give them what I gave YOU. Your mission is to bring them to ME. I gave you what you need to do this. If you would trust Me and listen to me..." </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">Now you see why the tears, heh? What a flood of truth! He had revealed quite a bit more to me, but I think I'm meant to keep some things to myself, for now. All I know is He wanted me to share this. He knows I forget easily if I don't write it down, and so I do write. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;">My relationship with Christ is amazing and ever-evolving. He is my breath. He is my energy. He is my Hope. It's so interesting how the Mass's readings today reflect so well in the lives and off the lives the faithful. I'm just amazed that the Scriptures today spoke of Philip's actions and that Peter said to "...be ready to explain the reason for this hope of yours." The Holy Spirit is so powerful and can speak volumes into our heart. But we must first, listen. And then DO. And by God's grace, we can succeed. We have a reason to hope, and we can simply trust Him. JMJ </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/bible/acts/8:5">ACTS 8:5-8, 14-17</a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Philip went down to the city of Samaria</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and proclaimed the Christ to them.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">With one accord, the crowds paid attention to what was said by Philip</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">when they heard it and saw the signs he was doing.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">For unclean spirits, crying out in a loud voice,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">came out of many possessed people,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and many paralyzed or crippled people were cured.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">There was great joy in that city.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Now when the apostles in Jerusalem</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">they sent them Peter and John,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">who went down and prayed for them,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">that they might receive the Holy Spirit,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">for it had not yet fallen upon any of them;</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Then they laid hands on them</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and they received the Holy Spirit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 19pt; font-weight: bold;">Reading 2</span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Always be ready to give an explanation</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">but do it with gentleness and reverence,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">keeping your conscience clear,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">so that, when you are maligned,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">those who defame your good conduct in Christ</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">may themselves be put to shame.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">For it is better to suffer for doing good,</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">if that be the will of God, than for doing evil.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13.6px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">For Christ also suffered for sins once,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">the righteous for the sake of the unrighteous,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">that he might lead you to God.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Put to death in the flesh,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">he was brought to life in the Spirit.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13.6px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 19pt; font-weight: bold;">Alleluia</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 128, 97); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #008061; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/bible/john/14:23">JN 14:23</a></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 19pt;">R.</span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 19pt; font-weight: bold;"> Alleluia, alleluia.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and my Father will love him and we will come to him.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 19pt;">R. </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 19pt; font-weight: bold;">Alleluia, alleluia.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13.6px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 19pt; font-weight: bold;">Gospel</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 128, 97); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #008061; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Arial-BoldMT; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/bible/john/14:15">JN 14:15-21</a></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Jesus said to his disciples:</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">"If you love me, you will keep my commandments.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">And I will ask the Father, </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot accept,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">because it neither sees nor knows him.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">But you know him, because he remains with you,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and will be in you.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">In a little while the world will no longer see me,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">but you will see me, because I live and you will live.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">On that day you will realize that I am in my Father</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and you are in me and I in you.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">Whoever has my commandments and observes them</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">is the one who loves me.</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father,</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 19px; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 19pt;">and I will love him and reveal myself to him."</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13.6px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br /></div>
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<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; min-height: 13.6px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br /></div>
Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-75184356013400289032017-05-08T23:40:00.002-04:002017-05-09T01:49:19.233-04:00“Please excuse this mess; I am building my dream home.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Please excuse this mess; I am building
my dream home.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">What is your first thought at these words?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">I’ve heard similar sayings before, but I have always been
annoyed with not having a perfectly tidy house, believe or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like things in their places, being
organized, and having my work and play time separated in my day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find it hard to relax if there is something
I know that has to be done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am a
worker. Probably one for perfection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
obviously, that just can’t be attained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
often rushed, feeling cramped for time, running late or something or other
always because I try to tackle so many chores and items on my list every
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, I was hit with a reality while
I was vacuuming tonight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always like
to enjoy resting and getting my break after I send the kids to bed, because, in
all honesty, it’s the one time of day I can get all my cleaning done, and it
stays that way…. Long enough for everyone to be sleeping. Ha!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See the irony?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ahhhh… I have reached a point where I am
getting tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t want my life to be spent keeping house the way a maid
would.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to be MOM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are struggles as a perfectionist personality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Believe me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And so I am grateful to God for His Holy Spirit. Especially when I am vacuuming
at 10:30 at night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">It’s true: I have inherited the same tidiness from my
mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember always cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seemed like we always had to keep house,
and I often wished mom would just JOIN us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t want to be like that where I feel I am always missing my down
time with my kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to make a
mental and conscious decision to begin building my dream home. It isn’t the
dream home built with brand new materials. Or one being perfectly new and fresh
and clean.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or one where it appears I
have all my “stuff together.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This past
year, a friend revealed to our group of ladies that she fears what others will
think of her, her mothering/parenting, etc., if she had friends over because
she can’t always have the house in perfect order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a truth bomb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t we all face the same pressure?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We worry so much about how we are viewed because
of the state of the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My question
is “Why?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why is that so easy a trap to
fall into?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">First, we are the catalysts for the hope of the future, aka
The KIDS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why WOULDN’T the evil one want
to tear us down?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make us feel like it’s
too hard to raise a family? And second, we live in a culture where materialism
is at its finest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We often without
thinking about it even, have the inert push to become Stepford Wives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want to “appear” to have everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of us don’t have these pressures, but I
know many moms, and have seen MANY different personalities, Type Bs are great friends
to Type As.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of us are just
natural-born organizer Type A women who have to have order to manage all the
things we take on, like myself. And that leads to a stressful situation
sometimes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9uP9tDz0dIEeBcFJ1Ahbz_HY7hMkg8yJqTJQ70_uFPfZdVWcxR9TYYBNkfgcDghHPHDc5NNaBwm1wQ0pKzJfHnJeDHikH5e4_k1iCYkxhSOwGQa3D7mKVZwEBfgcNYWsQV1i1ucC328s/s1600/VictorianMotherChild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9uP9tDz0dIEeBcFJ1Ahbz_HY7hMkg8yJqTJQ70_uFPfZdVWcxR9TYYBNkfgcDghHPHDc5NNaBwm1wQ0pKzJfHnJeDHikH5e4_k1iCYkxhSOwGQa3D7mKVZwEBfgcNYWsQV1i1ucC328s/s400/VictorianMotherChild.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.photobucket.com/user/Maryedna1211/media/Vintage/VictorianMotherChild.jpg.html?filters%5bterm%5d=vintage%20child&filters%5bprimary%5d=images" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">Back to the opening title, what makes a dream home such? Is
it the perfection, the nice, fresh house all the time? AS Christian mothers we
must refocus our attention to one thing: raising our children to be happy and healthy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">A Mother’s Rule of Life. </i>(I have it listed in my resource section.)
We must designate a certain time for certain things each day, making the time
with the kids and meals the priority:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>even if we finish nothing else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be
HAPPY AT HOME.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I recently shared a
fantastic article from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Above Rubies</i>
on loving to be home on my Facebook page (so be sure to read it if you haven’t!)
And, so, we are left with leaving the house in shambles momentarily--- to have
fun and quality time with our little ones (and teens too) ---and we can come
back to the mess. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Isn’t a dream home a place simply where the food is cooking,
the kids are playing, and you are happy? And when I say happy, I am not talking
about having nice things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am talking
about being able to read to the babies, and craft with the older kids, and
enjoy life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We barely have enough time
in the day to imagine doing these things amongst the business, right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is our CHOICE of where to spend our TIME.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just do it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Can it be challenging, coming out of an old routine and attempting
another one?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes. I get it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve been there. Lots of times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can make a master plan where you designate
certain activities with your precious kids and NO MATTER WHAT, YOU STICK TO
IT.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will find that after some time,
it will become what you ALL are looking forward to, and it became the priority
for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">Build your dream home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Leave the mess there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gather
everyone around before bedtime to help reorder the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you all go to bed, you will have peace
and memories that you want to do again the next day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And slowly, after some time, you will have
built your dream home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That place you
call home where the cooking makes you happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Where the kids make you happier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And where the mess isn’t such a big deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> The house we wish to build is not of wood and nails, but of faith and virtues, hope and charity.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;">Remember, the catalogue picture of a dream home isn’t what
makes it a dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the peace and
happiness inside that makes it all count.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take a breath, and begin building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><3</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>"Wherever God has put you, that is your vocation. It is not what we do, but how much love we put into it." </strong></em>~ St. Theresa of Calcutta</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: large;">JMJ<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-27657372737837761942017-02-10T00:03:00.003-05:002017-02-10T00:03:35.124-05:00We have an offical HOLY MOTHERHOOD BLOG!Come and visit us now at. . . . <a href="http://www.theholymotherhoodblog.com/" target="_blank">THE HOLY MOTHERHOOD BLOG</a><br />
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I have had so much fun at this blogging site, I am going to keep everything that is here, here. But all the NEW stuff will be at the new place! Come stop on over and join us there! :) <br />
(It's still under some construction there, but it will be finished soon!)Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-51616056817478373682017-02-05T22:41:00.002-05:002017-05-09T01:45:25.820-04:00My #prolife TestimonyThis is my testimony. It is my perspective. I am not trying to force my opinion, beliefs, or values on anyone. If I can influence you to find commonality with them, then I've done my job. I only hope to help others find appreciation in this deep and intimate testimony for life.<br />
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This is my family. Yes, there are 9 children. 2 of them are special needs. One has Downs and one has severe Crohn's. Some people call me crazy. Some people say I'm nuts. Many say that We are blessed and they are beautiful. Some people assume we are either Catholic or close-to-Amish. I will tell them we are Catholic. Birth control by synthetic chemical hormones is an obvious NO. My husband would never ask me to mutilate or manipulate my body to avoid one of these blessings.<br />
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In honor of the week of the March for Life I want to give my testimony. Some of this information is personal.<br />
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I became a mom at 19. I made a "choice" to break some rules and wasn't easy for parents once upon a time. That "choice" lead to my Genevieve being conceived and born. I married. I was in college and my husband was working at the place only God would've known would pave the path to where we are today.<br />
I was working and going to school. We had moved into an apartment and were learning what it was like to pay our bills. We were on Medicaid. Thank God for that program because it helped us keep our feet on the ground. It wasn't shameful to be on it. We didn't use food stamps. We chose to work hard and keep ourselves as independent as possible. Maynard worked for Firestone and eventually we began saving in a 401k. It was hard to see part of our paycheck going away into those savings because we could've used it..... to buy more stuff, probably. But, we kept saving.<br />
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Three months after Genevieve was born, Thaddaeus was on his way. I didn't listen to the doctor when he warned me that if I don't use birth control, then I "better not get caught with [my]pants down." Nor did I listen to the advice from other people to get on birth control. It's not what Catholics do, because of our beliefs. I had a scary time being pregnant with Thad. I almost lost him 3 times, once being rushed 1.5 hours away to a special hospital for preemies. He was finally safely born at 37 weeks, while the nurse told me in the same time I was there, that I should at least use condoms with my husband. I was in complete shock.<br />
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After our Camille was delivered by a doctor who "chose" to force my labor when I should've been sent home, and we were encouraged to consider a vasectomy for Maynard. And I was reassured tying my tubes would be great. Camille was born, and for 15 agonizing moments, I yearned to hold her for the first time. Nothing was wrong, the doctor just "chose" that she should have her keepsake cards made and shots and everything else first. Maynard didn't even get to cut her cord. In less than a week, this forced-birthed baby was in the hospital not breathing at times (apnea) with a serious case of jaundice that at was at brain damaging levels. I had to take off from my college classes. My professors were so good to me that I was able to finish with a 4.0, and not be dropped. Through intense prayers Camille is fine today.<br />
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Nathan came along with my children around his birth. He was a wonderful baby. Unbeknownst to us, his healthy days would be numbered, for he would develop severe Crohn's disease at the age of 8. Nathan was the happiest baby, and melted my heart. We bought our own house just before and that was a huge accomplishment. We were still working hard, I was staying at home, and we still paid our own bills. We had some help at Christmastime once in a while. But we were a happy growing family. Then I was hit with reproductive trouble.<br />
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Mary was my miracle baby in 2007. I was somewhat reproductively compromised when I actually conceived her. I was told by doctors to avoid pregnancy, but because of my Faith, I could only do what I could do, and she well, came along. I began what looked like a miscarriage for several days as we waited for tests to show she was still hanging on. The specialist and my office could not say what was going on. She came through tough as nails and was born in the Feast of the Ascension, Maynard allowed to deliver her surrounded by our kids and my niece and sister in law. She was a gift from God because we kept Him in charge. In Him all things are possible.<br />
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Peter was a little unplanned surprise. It was the longest ever that I had not been pregnant again after a previous baby. God gave me his name a long time prior and I knew he was special. We were always afraid to mention our newest pregnancies because of the cronyism we always received. It was hard to be excited when many weren't. It was like you could see sometimes on people's faces a sheer annoyance that we kept having children. Maynard told me, "God has a plan for him! He is going to do something great!" Peters dream is to be a Priest like his Uncle and ride fast cars until he must become poor. 😇<br />
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Elizabeth Hope is our #prolife baby. Her story is one I share to the only the closest of the close to me. I am not certain I will share completely-- on Facebook--, but I will enough info for the sake of the testimony. When I was searching the Holy Spirit for her name, I came up empty so many times. I didn't want to tell anyone I was pregnant. In fact, I dreaded it. I was happy at first, but when the reality set it that I would have to tell someone who wouldn't be as happy for me, I felt sick. If I could just.... not have gotten pregnant. Yes. I felt so burdened by the worlds opinions by now that I didn't think I had the strength to deal with anymore criticism, birth control advice, and especially the disgusted look by many. I fell into a deep emotions depression. Turmoil. Complete and utter blankness. WHY did I have to get pregnant!? Maybe. Just maybe birth control wouldn't be so bad. But no. I didn't want that either. Deep inside, all I wanted was SUPPORT AND to share my JOY , which was being suppressed, with others. This was a turning point for me. This had to be the WORST pregnancy ever. Or so I thought.... until God spoke to me. Until the Blessed Mother came to me.<br />
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That year, in the Mass, many of the readings while I was pregnant were about Elizabeth, the cousin of Mary, and Mary. Through this, it was revealed to me that this baby was going to be very special and God would be faithful to me through her. He showed me something that will forever strike me as deep, perceptive, intimate and overwhelming. I realized that the anxiety I was having was so intense that in these circumstances, these unsure and uncertain moments, these moments of fear and such lack of support and joy from others bring women to the deadly abortion table. I was so overcome with sorrow and hurt, emotional pain and agonizing helplessness for women like me at that moment that I could understand. I felt what they felt. I knew what they knew. And all we wanted was for someone to embrace us, the way Mary did with her cousin Elizabeth. I knew my argument was Shown by God in his creation that the UNBORN KNOW HIM. When St. John leaped in Elizabeth's womb at the sound of Mary's greeting, I knew TWO important things: Mary is the Mother of God, pure and holy, and that she was so important to God's plan He needed her. He needed her in such a way that He would not otherwise have come to us if it weren't for her womb and al that it entails. She literally fed and nurtured the God that saves us. And I knew that the unborn recognize the voice of Mary, and with her, the presence of Christ is with her. And that Christ is recognizable to the unborn. And for this reason, all life in the womb is sacred, and holy, and purposeful, and deliberate. I as long realized that there is such lack of joy for the life within the womb that we must do something to reassure women that THEY MATTER. And that their babies MATTER. And that in these moments of new life must not be swept away by the opinion of the world, or the lack of support for the world has lost its grasp on the gift of life.<br />
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I knew that Elizabeth Hope was God's message to me. Her middle name represents the Hope that is lost in the cases of so many women when an unplanned pregnancy hits them. Hope is what we have in Christ for all those who made a "choice" to be burdened by life enough to snuff it out, or who have forgotten the JOY that should replace heartache. Hope is the name of our Lady when she can bring us to Jesus, like she did with Elizabeth and John. Hope is what my daughter will bring sometime in her future calling. She is my #prolife baby. And she is the sweetest, most gentle, joyful, amazing child. I do not take for granted my children, or Elizabeth. I know have no more baby girls. My womb has not ever gone this long without a new baby girl. My heart feels for the barren, in a way. I long for another little girl. Elizabeth wishes she could have a baby sister. The greatest message I recieved from Elizabeth's coming was that the very children who make a difference are the ones who impact you the greatest. Other mothers who abort have no idea what difference this one child could make. They have no idea what they are throwing away. They have no idea that there is HOPE.<br />
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Sebastian came after I dreamed of losing a baby within the first 15 weeks of pregnancy. Somehow Saint Faustina played a roll in teaching me this. I don't know how, but, perhaps she was the intercessor here. I had a VERY DETAILED dream that left in me in tears when I awoke. I had been pregnant in my dream and miscarried. But somehow there was this hope that I could save the baby. I could see his legs, arms, fingers, etc. I held his body in my hand, weeping terribly. I wept because I was wondering how he'd make me smile, or laugh, or what amazing talent he may have. I wept because I was missing his life within mine. At that time I realized what God telling me. Keeping God from creating life was going to prevent such gifts bestowed upon me or the world. I knew that if we had chosen to abstain at the time would cause me great sorrow when one day God would reveal to me the times I "chose" to control my own life, and what joy I'd missed because of it. I told my husband I felt we must listen and allow God to work if He so chose. I found out I was pregnant within the month. I was expecting it, but still in shock in a way because I was solely trusting in God and what I felt He communicated to me. It makes me tear up writing this now, because I see where He would expect the same from me after Sebastian was born.<br />
Sebastian came after a healthy pregnancy, at 36.5 weeks. I had wondered if he was going to be healthy because I had a sense something didn't seem right. I never would have guessed that after a dream to cooperate with God, I'd give birth to a beautiful boy with Down Syndrome. And to this day, (tears!) I could never had imagined the sorrow Id feel to live without him. He showed me the gift of a child I'd long to save to be with me before He even created him. It was a perfect cooperation with God that brought a purely deliberate and intentional creation to me. This is how I know that God knew Sebastian before He created him within my womb. He was dedicated before He was with me. Another #prolife moment. Keep in mind: 9/10 of babies with Downs are aborted simply because they have the diagnosis of the extra chromosome.<br />
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I could share the message of what took place throughout the NICU with Sebastian, but that is for another post. This little angel's full name is Sebastian James. He was given to me by the powerful intercession of our Lady, the Immaculata. Again, for another post. But, in the moment I realized I could not control things, and that God asked me to trust Him, (going back to my dream), He chose to do one more thing: speak to me yet again. 2 Cor. 4:17 says, "For this light, momentary affliction is preparingfor us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison." Sebastian was born at 4:17. God spoke to me through his word, at my request to tell me something encouraging, thanks to my sister in law.<br />
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Cajetan John-Raphael is my last baby as of now. His name literally means, "Rejoice! God has shown favor and healed!" His birth was a miracle. Something I could've never imagined ... I prayed my entire pregnancy that God would give me a joyful birth to replace the heartache I felt after Sebastian was born and the long NICU stay, which ailed my momma heart.... I prayed that the delivery would be "uneventful" and that I would be able to hold my baby for as long as I wanted and he wouldn't have to be rushed away without me. My heart wouldn't be able to bear that again. My labor was easy and my delivery miraculously beautiful! I was able to deliver him myself and it was complete. Conception to birth, I brought him forth to myself. And that boy wanted his momma. My heart was healed. Sebastian had been blessed with a sibling, ever worthy of one of a child deserved one. My children were elated.<br />
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My choices weren't always easy, and my family isn't mine because they were all MY CHOICES. It is what is because of what GOD CHOSE. Each one of these little blessings taught me something: that whether it was an opportune time to be pregnant, and the struggles with each, when there were some, helped me to appreciate another aspect of someone else's circumstance. It taught me compassion. It taught me that God Has plans only He could know, and that what we view as a mistake He can use for a miracle. He taught me that I don't have to be in control in order to bring success and greatness into my life. He taught me that my plans are not my own, but His to chose ultimately for me. He taught me that when I let go, and give it to Him, and when I trust His voice, He will not fail me. Though there may be trials, I can count it all joy..... He is gracious to bless me (and us!) with perseverance and wisdom, strength and courage to take on the unknown, so that He might be glorified. This is my #prolife testimony. If any of my children were snuffed out by abortion, I can guarantee it wouldn't be the same. I couldn't choose which ones I'd rather live without. Each of them teach me. Each of them teach me to love deeper.<br />
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CHOICE is a gift, sure. But there are poorly made choices, and choices made in faith. CHOICE can be wrong or right, good or bad, yielding to consequence or success. For those who know me, I know you would say you cannot imagine my choices being different. And I'd have to agree. Please come to realize what importance your choices are. Choices have either a benefit or a loss. Choose wisely. You wouldn't want to be left wondering, "What if...?"<br />
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Each of my children are a part of my legacy that I will leave behind someday. It wasn't easy bringing them all into the world. I had several difficulties, and many which took some toll on me for a time. I had risky deliveries, and risk of hemorrhage. But God made sure His plans for my children were kept. He kept me safe no matter what. The saddest part is my children didn't all come easily, and I realize how different my life would be had things gone totally wrong, and I experienced my first miscarriage (fairly early) this past year. I was so afraid to see my body having difficulties. I now have reached a point where I wonder if I could be blessed again. I do not take my pregnancies and births for granted. I now wonder if it could ever again be within reach. I am not sure I am ready to see these moments gone just yet. <br />
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My prayer is that those women out there contemplating abortion, stop and think.... not about whether they will or will not get that degree on time (I chose to put my education in hold, and can now revisit that opportunity soon!), or think about that wedding date they cannot (but could) change, that job they think will be compromised if they kept that baby, but to think of the life awaiting if they'd make a choice to see where life takes them for a change.... not where they take their life. Let the flower bloom. Everyday it gets more exciting.... there won't always be joy and happiness; sometimes there are tears. But life isn't set for easiness. It's set to be on fire with compassion, love, and life to the fullest. Give the unborn a chance to make a life for you. All you need to do is let them take the wheel, or the womb, actually. They have ways of changing your world; THIS WORLD.<br />
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Peace and hope be with you all. Thank you for reading. Please like and share! Spread the message of hope!<br />
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#JMJ<br />
#holymotherhood<br />
#sebastiansgift<br />
#prolife<br />
#trustinHim<br />
#lettheunborntakebacktheirwomb<br />
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<br />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-72239400295317368602017-02-05T22:33:00.002-05:002017-02-05T22:33:14.784-05:00The Women's March and LBGT<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Wow. <br />
Just wow. <br />
It's been a little while since I posted, but after the Women's March of 2017, I have enough to say. <br />
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First of all, Trump is the president of the USA. Second, we have the right to protest anything and can do it peacefully. However- however..... the vulgarity of the speeches and the foulness of the language, and the "nastiness" of the remaking of women is anything but peaceful. I have many Christian friends who supported the march. I agree that there were some points that I'd also march for. But there was not a clear cookie cutter woman shape or belief to march by. Segregation and lack of toleration in diversity among the reasons of others to march---was not permissible by the leaders of the march. Spitting on prolife supporters and calling them names and making their cause less voiced, being aggressive in their manner and words is not likely to gain much support of many in the long run. All of this created a distaste for the marching. I told many friends and loved ones that I wish the women representing the march would have chosen a more classy way to speak and show their "love and unity". <br />
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I haven't given my opinion on the LGBT 🏳️🌈 issue, (although I believe my stand on Planned Parenthood is clear), Sharia Law and a few others. I want to address this issue, (the first mentioned).<br />
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LGBT. I do not condone this lifestyle. But, the truth is: these are still God's children. I feel I must be clear in how we are to love them. We must love them the way we love our siblings. We must live them we love our children. We must love them the way we love our heterosexual friends. We must love them the SAME. We must love them, ultimately, with the love God has for US.<br />
Just because many of them choose a way of life we do not want to see them live, doesn't mean we should be "blocking" them out. Yes, they need protection from bullying. Yes, they should feel safe anywhere. But I also believed those that "come out" don't need some "special attention". They should not feel like they they have to fight for "special rights". It should just be established that they go about living everyday life the way the rest of us do. Protection of Discrimination against them should be no greater or get more attention than protection of discrimination for the rest of us. <strong>AND IT SHOULD BE ALLOWED THAT ANY CHURCH WHO WISHES TO HELP A PERSON WILLING TO GET HELP, SHOULD NOT BE IMPLEMENTED IN A CRIMINAL OR ILLEGAL ACT - TO HELP</strong>. If persons in this situation wish to avoid further tendencies and want help, they should be encouraged. Not because they should not be gay. But because it is AGAINST God's Laws. Yes, God is merciful. And only He knows the heart of a man or woman living in this situation. But the lack of respect for these persons as children of God has caused this wave of backlash from many in the homosexual community.<br />
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Ok, what about gay marriage? Why all the attention NOW? Well I will tell you. There can be no such thing as gay marriage. The first idea of marriage came from God in Genesis when God created them man and woman. Christ showed us the power of a man and woman in Genesis and again in the New Testament. He showed us the sacredness of our bodies when He saved Mary from stoning though Joseph's charity, and Mary Magdalene when she was going to be stoned. She turned away from that lifestyle and was able to use her body in a holy way after Christ's mercy on herself. He tells us in such detail of how a man and woman (who's relationship was created by Him) should keep themselves pure, how can anyone imagine that two of the same sex living in such way would be tolerated or not considered sinful? JESUS reminds us, "Sin no more." That doesn't mean that we can't make mistakes and be hopeful for the future after a seeking of forgiveness. Or that we can't laugh with these people, or have a good time with them. We can always make room to defend them against discrimination, as I've said, but we also don't have to participate in all the things our homosexual friends congregate with, either. Love the sinner, hate the sin. Help them, do not condemn them. <br />
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I also believe the Church has a higher obligation to the people if Christians feel overwhelmed by the amount of dissent and degrading of morals within a society, when such attention is being demanded by a lifestyle of "sinful" nature. "<em><strong>Disorder in society is the result of disorder it the family,"</strong></em> says Saint Angela Merici. This means that the CHURCH must better serve its sheep. Not by allowing and tolerating such dissent, but by bringing a greater love of Christ, as to help those who struggle with this sin. We cannot blame someone who is dealing with this lifestyle and not look at ourselves and believe we are more righteous. We <strong>MUST</strong> look at them with the same kind of charitable LOVE Christ has for us; Difference being, we must still recognize the sin, and guide our neighbor away from it, not accept it as ok. I know many a person who struggles with this, and let me tell you... I love them. I want to laugh with them, enjoy their talents with them, however, they will know I do not agree with their lifestyle, but I can respectfully state my objection, and still be a light to them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFaAJaqmc4-D16OgRJAde5bfIu-kOEo8m_aB9qmtvNowXx3wH9LDXrnpXmfxUbFKP2wHlvZH2fM_abzoPIqAlG1qNL5aYy_uFeh7EaO5ucOA-E3DZ-l_Rjmkes3jRtD_srWUF2sol9LxA/s1600/a9ed2b258edefe60ef2fa6922de01018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFaAJaqmc4-D16OgRJAde5bfIu-kOEo8m_aB9qmtvNowXx3wH9LDXrnpXmfxUbFKP2wHlvZH2fM_abzoPIqAlG1qNL5aYy_uFeh7EaO5ucOA-E3DZ-l_Rjmkes3jRtD_srWUF2sol9LxA/s1600/a9ed2b258edefe60ef2fa6922de01018.jpg" /></a><br />
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I do not believe in making excuses for their sin. Just like I cannot make excuses for someone who breaks any of the other Commandments. I must still LOVE them with the kind of charitable love Christ expects from me. But, we, as the Church must continue to focus On Christ, and His Laws, in order to help our friends and neighbors. We cannot be haters. We are called to be lovers. And lovers, first, with Christ. In Him then, He can work through us to help others turn away from this path of confusion. Although it may not seem that way to these neighbors of ours living this lifestyle, perhaps their understanding of God and Christ's love for us, will begin to make sense, and HE can lead them back to Himself. I pass not Christ's judgement on anyone. I we, as Christians, can love better, lead better, have stronger convictions, know better our Faith, and take the advice of our elders as we should, perhaps merely by example, we can help lead the ones we find ourselves praying for most, will see that light we profess about. <3 <br />
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JMJMargaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-33208181103427421072016-12-27T01:52:00.000-05:002016-12-27T01:59:21.157-05:00Today is the feast day of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist. Cajetan is named after St. John, this beloved apostle.<br />
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<img src="webkit-fake-url://43f82c77-04b1-47fc-b17e-c3c0364b53d9/imagepng" /><br />
<br />
https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-john-the-apostle/<br />
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<br />
Reading 11 JN 1:1-4<br />
Beloved:<br />
What was from the beginning,<br />
what we have heard,<br />
what we have seen with our eyes,<br />
what we looked upon<br />
and touched with our hands<br />
concerns the Word of life—<br />
for the life was made visible;<br />
we have seen it and testify to it<br />
and proclaim to you the eternal life<br />
that was with the Father and was made visible to us—<br />
what we have seen and heard<br />
we proclaim now to you,<br />
so that you too may have fellowship with us;<br />
for our fellowship is with the Father<br />
and with his Son, Jesus Christ.<br />
We are writing this so that our joy may be complete.<br />
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Basically: We have seen the good Lord, and we can say He is True. It is proclaimed so that we may join Him and our joy will be complete. So perfectly appropriate for Christmas time. ❤️️<br />
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<img height="320" src="webkit-fake-url://1492b2ae-c4e3-493f-862a-6cce119381d0/imagejpeg" width="320" />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-20428385639375932742016-12-27T01:39:00.003-05:002016-12-27T01:41:19.441-05:00 merry christmas: a savior is bornMerry Christmas all!<br />
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It's been a while since I've written anything: but I have been very busy and wished I could've shared a million thoughts by now. First, Christmas has begun, and the year is almost at an end. I don't even know where to start. I post quite a bit of my thoughts on Facebook, so it's difficult to keep up my blog, sometimes. I apologize. I've absorbed quite a bit lately from Mass and the messages I've received..... I would have to say, my most challenging item right now is accepting God's desire to challenge me. My son, Nathan is having a less severe flare up of his Crohns right now, but it's all the same: a flare up, and this requires a lot of care. It's exhausting and overwhelming. Sebastian started preschool back in November, and his special ed class is wonderful. He loves "school". I am excited to share some of the cute things he's done while there. I have an easier way now of posting shorter thoughts now, so I will try to keep Up on blog posts better. I will leave you all with this, for now. And I will share a little more VERY soon. ❤️<br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-26664219576875990372016-08-22T15:55:00.002-04:002016-08-22T15:55:40.058-04:00Part 2- Nathan PaulNext in my series on S<em>uffering Being an Honor</em>.... <br />
<br />
<a href="http://hechoseyou.blogspot.com/2016/01/part-1-cajetan-well-i-guess-i-will.html#links">Holy Motherhood! *So let there be children!*#links</a> ( <=== Part 1 is here)<br />
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I know it sounds insane. Why on earth would anyone call suffering an honor? Most of our society believes that no one should have to suffer, and while that may be true in a way, we must remember as it is a result of our sinfulness, it is also how the broken and damned are redeemed: how? through Jesus Christ. What He did on Calvary washed clean all those who ruined perfectness. But how does that apply to us? Why is our suffering important at all and why does it matter for good? I'm going to explain, so don't worry, haha. <br />
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My first in this series was mostly about what happened last year with the hospitalization of my youngest baby boy, Cajetan. He was 4.5 weeks old and ended up in a hospital out of state because its the hospital closest to where we were vacationing. He was treated for meningitis, and what an ordeal that was. Finally, we arrived home and just as was getting my life back together, what do you know, another test from the Good Lord was imminent. Not to mention, a friend's precious baby boy had just recently passed away the month before and I had about had enough. It was time for God to give me a break- so *I* thought. <br />
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We arrived home in September 2015, and late to begin our homeschooling year. I was an anxious mess. How do you make up for 3-4 weeks of homeschooling? It was overwhelming. I finally got my routine back into some kind of order, (other moms know what I mean, here, right? What order?!), and November 30 rolls around, and time for Nathan's routine colonoscopy. As some of you know, a week after my dad passed away in March 2014, we realized Nathan was very ill. He was diagnosed in May (finally) with what we suspected (worse actually) all along. He was diagnosed with moderate Crohns disease at age 8. My husband took him a few hours away to the specialists, and then we heard the worst. His Crohns after 2 years, was worse. it was elevated to severe, and the colonoscopy had to be stopped early because of bleeding that began during the procedure. The news we were hoping NOT to hear came. He was being hospitalized. I JUST thought I was getting our homeschooling back in order and - again- a disruption. 2 months into recovery form the last hospital visit, and yet, again, hello hospital. My heart sank. I was angry. I told the Lord I cannot have this right now. I told Him that this was not good timing. I told him I have a zillion things to handle already, and I can't take anymore. I felt His words in my heart, "But I am asking you to."<br />
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So, because I believe that all things come from God, even our chances to show our commitment to whatever He asks of us, I submitted. AGAIN. I asked Him to help me, because He must know something I don't. He knows there is a lesson I will learn, and how could I not want to learn from Him? Of course, friends and family come around to help, which is amazing. It's like watching God mobilize His amazing army into position, wherever He needs them positioned. And then I was comforted knowing He had this because I could SEE what he was taking care of. <br />
<br />
.... but, what I wanted Him to take care of was Nathan. I wanted Him to heal his Crohns. I wanted to see and hear that my boy could be normally happy again. I wanted to see him happy to not have the symptoms he seems to have had forever, to finally be gone. I wanted him HEALED. I was desperate. It was torturous to watch him suffer while I wasn't. * I leaned on Our Lady again, because I knew she knew my pain. I know she knew the same feelings I was feeling. I knew she wanted the things I wanted for my boy. But, I also had to resign myself from controlling the situation. He was in God's plan, not mine. I had to release him to God's Will. And pray. <br />
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It is almost the worst thing a mom can see. Seeing your children suffering so and unable to do nothing. Waiting on God is all one momma can do, and hoping He hears our prayers and pleas. It was hard to watch Nathan have to fast for 4 days. He was on IVs but that didn't help his tummy not feel starving. It was called a bowel rest. He had to get up several times in the night to go to the bathroom. It was hard to sleep. I stayed with Nathan the whole time except for the weekend when Maynard (my husband) stayed so I could have a break, since I stayed at the hospital with a 4 month old baby while I was with Nathan. It was rough. I had the stroller, the pack and play, but I can only leave the rest to your creative imagination.<br />
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There were times I had to leave the room so I could eat, which was hard because I felt so guilty. If I wasn't nursing too, I could've fasted I thought, with Nathan, but I had Cajetan to care for too. I developed a sore throat and cold like lung bug. Seeing Nathan not being able to eat was very hard. He complained sometimes of being so hungry and then would ask me, "Mom, when can I eat? How long before I can eat?" <br />
It's something that we take for granted so often because it's so easy to do. Simply to eat. I know when I am hungry, it hurts. All I could do was imagine what he was feeling, not being able to satisfy his hunger. MY heart was breaking. <br />
So I had to gently tell Nathan, "Soon. But offer it up to God, Nathan, the way Jesus did." <br />
We are suppose to be like Him, right? <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xPcdqLPjh-PuGj3seAnCn8SUUY8nPYCD676R8Ep4Amxrlnqkj3vsY8ve4dGNm1u9pZ-xrQMVUTbwbK0uXJdZLkW2rTsnAiJBcqeks1RECDqyeNUGK6bwzGVDasf3cT-rTUjyknfVthE/s1600/nathanhospital15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-xPcdqLPjh-PuGj3seAnCn8SUUY8nPYCD676R8Ep4Amxrlnqkj3vsY8ve4dGNm1u9pZ-xrQMVUTbwbK0uXJdZLkW2rTsnAiJBcqeks1RECDqyeNUGK6bwzGVDasf3cT-rTUjyknfVthE/s320/nathanhospital15.jpg" width="240" /></a>"We can offer up your suffering for those who do not love Him. He chose you. He chose you because He made you with something that makes you strong enough to do it. You can give this all to Him. Keep being strong. You can do it."<br />
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All the words I could say I prayed would help us be stronger in the situation. I told Nathan as I cried that I wish he didn't have to suffer. I wish he could be like his brothers. I wish that he could eat whatever he wanted. I wish he didn't stop growing for the last two years. I told him that I don't know why God was asking him to bear this. I told him that I DO know its because He loves him, and that he can help Jesus save souls and bring glory to God's Holy Name. <br />
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You know what he told me? He said something close to this, "I wish sometimes that I didn't have Crohns, but I am happy to have it so I can offer this suffering up. I want to help the souls." <br />
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*TISSUES PLEEEEEEEEEEEEASE!* <br />
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(He also mentioned to me that it was ok if I go eat because, "maybe tomorrow I will get to eat.")<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfjzGHpupsFZdD5dTlqN_1FFEKDRATwvbA8FUtQEz27uP3UJCTJWBuDbCRbifpte2jOwrOCMVxfqqkw8OogdDWcqcrEUqNuiBlKXKMRqrqFjlwb_OImcTrysU7k_ZPozpwAgbUOUPveU/s1600/nathan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfjzGHpupsFZdD5dTlqN_1FFEKDRATwvbA8FUtQEz27uP3UJCTJWBuDbCRbifpte2jOwrOCMVxfqqkw8OogdDWcqcrEUqNuiBlKXKMRqrqFjlwb_OImcTrysU7k_ZPozpwAgbUOUPveU/s320/nathan.jpg" width="239" /></a>VIRTUE. This is why I KNOW and believe in redemptive suffering. This is how I KNOW and believe it is an honor, because, GOD gets the FULL glory. Every time. This little boy shocked me. I couldn't believe that in all this time, *I* was the one complaining more than he was about his condition. *I* was the one angry he had Crohns. *I* was the one upset that it was disrupting our lives. It took me to being in that hospital, in that room, at that very moment, crying with my child, to realize that I needed to EMBRACE this cross with Nathan, the way that Our Lord did. I needed to submit to His plan. I didn't want Crohns to run our life anymore. <br />
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I realize that I needed to look upon Nathan the way I look upon Sebastian. That "These light, momentary afflictions are preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison." 2 Cor.4:17.<br />
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I needed to accept it. I finally could. But I prayed more. We blessed Nathan with St. Raphael's oil, prayed novenas, and blessed him with special holy water from Turkey from a shrine of Our Lady. Family visited him throughout the ten days he was there at the hospital. He improved some (although he was still going to have to be on Humira injections), was on prednisone for a while, and I had successful discussion about his diet with the dieticians.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR8Hw7HBqVcNvWYp7wNdpBOYtL-aY0xHSazeaZzIsRotfDU4FX3jeoGi0EqX6o1MPtDch4C6mP-0gumT0unZC0HRJvoxbPaeRaLlsoafZJCQ4nEDBl0VCRfwewGLah52Kr0FesDfaA4U/s1600/IMG_7687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR8Hw7HBqVcNvWYp7wNdpBOYtL-aY0xHSazeaZzIsRotfDU4FX3jeoGi0EqX6o1MPtDch4C6mP-0gumT0unZC0HRJvoxbPaeRaLlsoafZJCQ4nEDBl0VCRfwewGLah52Kr0FesDfaA4U/s320/IMG_7687.JPG" width="320" /></a>We were able to come home, and watch him improve everyday. We watched him become a happy active boy again, the first time since his diagnosis (2 years). In March, we visited the Shrine of Saint John Neumann in Philadelphia. This is where he begged St. John Neumann for his prayers that he would be completely healed if he could be, with such child-like faith. To my surprise, it was only then at his March appointment afterwards, that I heard the best news ever in two years. His bloodwork showed amazing results like that of never before since his diagnosis. I was driving when the Dr. called, so I had to pull over as soon as I could to cry. His anemia was completely gone. His hemoglobin was great. EVERYTHING was greatly improved. I know for sure it was God's Blessing. I don't know for sure how much of it was the massive overhaul of his diet changes and supplements, or just the Humira. But I do know that the Humira wasn't working for two months prior to making changes. And I believe St. John Neumann's prayers helped. <br />
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It's an amazing story, yes. Nathan will always use your prayers, because we do pray for healing. Complete healing. We are working with his doctor to venture into whatever can help him naturally, but the Humira will not be out anytime soon. He is still very happy and healthy. He is a great witness to me of virtue, and perseverance, and joyful suffering. He reminds me of how I should be. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nathan running track again-finally- July 2016</td></tr>
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So, be strong if you are suffering. I'm sure your stories are being written. Let the Lord take the glory that is His. He has chosen you for your strength and commitment that He knows He gave you. And pray, pray, pray for the grace to overcome these trials with joy. <br />
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J.M.J. <br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-20652259151286630592016-08-21T20:18:00.002-04:002016-08-22T11:55:23.488-04:00Thank you, Serenity Joy<br />
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<strong><em>The greatest test for a mother</em></strong>.<br />
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The worst tragedy you can image. What it is? I mean, as a mom? <br />
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Is it running late for an important event? Getting juice spilled on you from your toddler's leaking sippy cup because in you're in a hurry and you didn't screw the lid on right? Is it finding a rip in your skirt after you arrived to an outing for a special party? How about your husband doing something you least expected at a time when you were not ready for it? A car accident? A sick child in the hospital? Or a complete utter surprise that will forever change the picture of your family? Like a death of a child? <br />
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I think the latter pretty much sums up what we moms are most afraid of. All these other things are merely nonsense, even though they don't seem to be at the moment. Imagine the last night you put your baby to bed. The last kiss you gave her that she returned with a smile. The last time you read his favorite book. Or perhaps the last time you had to discipline this little disciple. Most often, we don't take the time to consider that any of these things are actually the last time we do <em><strong>anything</strong></em> with these little people. However, for some, it is. And most often, they are taken for granted. <br />
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Why is my post so depressing today you wonder? I have crossed a milestone marker in my life as a mom. *I* have NOT lost a child. But, I have had it come too close to home in a couple of friends in the exact past year. Most recently, just last week, actually. This little girl's death had hit me hard, and for a number of reasons. Keep in mind, that I have never asked God, "<em>Why</em>?!" until yesterday. I guess this is where WISDOM comes from. All these events that rock our lives in the unexpected way. This precious little angel at age 6, had Down Syndrome and was a beam of light to all those who knew her. She was from a family of 12 children. Her parents are faithful Christians and live with the Eternal Hope. She was found, tragically, drowned; an accident with heartbreaking outcome. When I heard this, all I could picture was her mother holding her like in the movies, babe in arms, dripping wet, screaming out all the life that her baby ever brought into her life. I was crushed. I was so incredibly torn to pieces. This is what I imagined I would do if I was her. Do I know the exact details, no. Did I ask, of course not. But, either way, the horrid storm of storms began. And so the greatest test of mothers ever to be had. Many of the following thoughts are what crossed my mind as I waited in the calling hours line to give my condolences to the family. <br />
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The Blessed Virgin Mother, Mary, the Mother of Jesus.... had to endure being <em><strong>engulfed</strong></em> by the ginormous wave of weakness and heartache too. She had to endure the test of her human nature, will, and submission to God. Giving her own Son up for sacrifice on that holy cross for us. She had to watch him suffer a tragic death. And she COULD NOT STOP IT. She could not keep Him, for He was not Hers anymore to keep. I imagine that in the movie, <em>The Passion of the Christ</em>, at the moment He perished, it was fitting for her to drop the sand from her hand as if the life of her was gone, after so tightly squeezing her fists in anxiety and sorrow, is what I would also feel to hear the words, "He is gone." <br />
<br />
My connection to this precious family is from a few angles. The most prominent one is that the Mrs. and myself share something in common: both of our children have Down Syndrome. This makes the death of Serenity Joy somewhat personal to me, as the faces of our children are so similar. The death of any child is traumatic and rough, but I have to add that the extra chromosome means you are loosing something extra special too, when that child passes on. It makes it a little different, not harder, but different, I'd imagine. This little girl was a perfect angel /gift/light/saint from God. The joy that the smiles of her face bring are irresistible and healing almost. I know this because I have a child who does the same for me, for us. I cannot imagine loosing Sebastian. I cannot fathom the loneliness and the dreariness of the day without him. And with that, my heart is aching for Cindy and Dave. I know the sort of things they are dreading to miss in Serenity. I know that fear of the heartache after things settle down.... or seem to settle down. The nuances of the everyday and the responses from the baby girl they wont hear or see anymore are terrifying. It isn't fair that God took her. She was too young. We <em><strong>ALL</strong></em> still needed her. <br />
<br />
We all need Jesus and Our Lady this way. We cannot live, breathe, hope or experience true joy without them. Serenity's life teaches me so many lessons that I didn't realize that I could learn from, even as a mom. Her Down Syndrome reminds me how wonderful this extra chromosome is, and how sad it is that so many like her and Sebastian are wiped from the life they deserve through abortion. If only people and mothers could know what they would miss! I have shed tears, and tears over this great loss of life. I hope that God will help me to sort out all the lessons I am to learn from this event. I still ache for her life. I didn't want this news to be real.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTez3M5KnFiqzGdIPq1ANRBoBQKKzuQ8l23dkuV8AO5RpVh9f9YADPoEPbmJzY8WClWIsZzYuCWFvCmU6rE7zmo9CTVPkcHNYlXaJ1GxGuD0VzSZ2D9zQ4ZqqlSEV9pp51AIFg9vm8qZ0/s1600/serenity+joy+mccarthy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTez3M5KnFiqzGdIPq1ANRBoBQKKzuQ8l23dkuV8AO5RpVh9f9YADPoEPbmJzY8WClWIsZzYuCWFvCmU6rE7zmo9CTVPkcHNYlXaJ1GxGuD0VzSZ2D9zQ4ZqqlSEV9pp51AIFg9vm8qZ0/s320/serenity+joy+mccarthy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Photo used with permission from the McCarthy family</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today at Mass, Deacon Dean prayed for Serenity Joy. I posted on
Facebook my thoughts of the day. I reminded Serenity's dad that
she will be their cheerleader in Heaven, and he told me that she was nicknamed
"Pom Pom". How sweet. I hugged
my friends. I saw Sebastian's little features in the features of the
few others with Downs at the church. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<strong><i>From my Facebook post:</i></strong><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Its just unbelievable. The rain. On today. My heart sinks like an anchor
from a boat in the midst of a storm. The winds have blown. The excitedness of
the shock wears down. And what is left? The brokenness of the ship somehow
remains afloat and carries on by Gods Miracle. The passenger departed becomes
the angel guiding the crew to safety.... the passenger somehow becomes the
intercessor at the crews request. She is a champion for those she leaves
behind. God will not turn His Merciful ears away from such a champion. I will
see her face everyday in the face of my boy. Her name means the calm after this
storm. Peace returns. Serenity is all that remains. And Gods Glory is
victorious in the hearts of all those who knew this little champion on this
ship. Fly away and kiss the face of the Holy Captain, dear sweet Serenity. <i><span style="font-family: "segoe ui emoji" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😇😇😇😇</span></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
******<br />
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Today at Mass, one of the readings were from Hebrews12:5-7, 11-13<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
To sum it up, "Those whom the Lord loves, he disciplines."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Why would this be relevant? Because to discipline literally means to
train up; to make disciples. Every good Christian I know believes that
God is refining us through our trials. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
From this scripture, it says,<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
"So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees. Make
straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be disjoined, but
healed."<o:p></o:p><br />
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This is my encouragement for all my moms and friends weak from loosing a
child, or even suffering with the ailments your children are suffering.
It is what Our Lady had to do. The late Mother Angelica also reminds us,
"Suffering without love, is wasted pain." So, we give this heartache
and all these tears and all this pain to God that He will use it to bring more
souls to Himself, which will bring His Glory. <br />
<br />
Also remember what St. James the Apostle reminds us of in James 1:2, "Count it all joy." It is hard to do. I know its hard. But we are encouraged to FIND it anyhow. And we will. We must just cling to God and the tender love of Jesus. <br />
<br />
Oh, my dear, dear, precious friends. How I wish I could do something
more than what I can do to help ease your pain. I am here for you.
The Lord is hear for you. Rest your tired and sore hearts upon his
flaming Heart of Love. Serenity is waiting for you to know Him the
way she does now. May God's Blessing flow out to you, today, tomorrow and
each day to come. All my prayers and love. xo <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
To God be the Glory! And in this storm, know that the calm will
come. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-13930886443522867952016-01-17T20:55:00.001-05:002016-08-22T16:09:08.952-04:00Part 1- Cajetan: Suffering & It Being an Honor?<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 1- Cajetan</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Well, I guess I will start with the above quote. It may have some of you wondering what on earth St. Ignatius is even talking about. But when I am finished with this series of posts, I hope you will find it clear. I chose this one because it resonated with part of my life in 2015. 2015 was an amazing year, and actually, as the New Year approached, with the 12 o'clock hour near, for the first time I felt a gut punch. . . like I didn't want to say goodbye to 2015. It was kind of weird. I tried for a moment to think of WHY I felt that way, and perhaps the biggest reason was I felt I was going farther and farther away from my dad. Its all in my head, but, still, it means more and more time has gone by since I have last been in his presence. I also haven't had a chance to visit his grave much since August, and I miss him. <br />
<br />
How is it an honor to suffer, and suffer for GOD? I will have to elaborate on this one in a few posts.<br />
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In September, I chose to take a trip south to visit my uncle and aunt, and took my 13 year old, Thad, and baby boys, Sebastian, 2, and Cajetan, (our newest addition in July!). Cajetan was causing me some concern with his health, as I suspected something along the lines of a UTI, but no fever came through, and it left me confused. I took him to the Drs. before I left, but that turned out merely a waste of my time, and within 4 days into our vacation, he was hospitalized out of state and treated for meningitis. Much to my shock already, I had no idea how I was to handle such an ordeal with vacationing with two of my other kids, and being stuck in a hospital for 2 weeks. Long story short, God is GOOD, and family is priceless. Everything worked out just fine, and after 3 and half weeks away from home, and my other kids and husband, (who was about on his knees begging to have me home!), we were reunited. What a crazy way to start off our fall/autumn, and not to mention homeschooling.<br />
<br />
See, while I was sitting in yet another hospital, WITH another BABY, God had taught me again, in another lesson, that could have only been arranged by Him. This is where I had much to learn. I'd like to go back to that hospital room with my new baby Cajetan. At 5 weeks old, he was IV'd, and in a little crib, under a heat lamp, and I was in a mess. My first thoughts were of despair, of course, because all I could think about was how my aunt and uncle were going to juggle my boys' vacation time without me too. I was so overwhelmed. Cajetan's stay was going to take us an extra week into September that my plane ticket wasn't set for. Deep down, with my previous experiences with Sebastian, I KNEW -- I just KNEW-- we were going to have to stay the full 14 days, and that all tests the Drs. wanted done to rule this and that out, were going to come up unable to get us out of that hospital. And before anything else happened, I would feel the Holy Spirit, pressing (like with a heavy weight) on my heart, and feeling the urge to accept whatever happened to me, and to Cajetan. It was rough, but it did get worse before it got better for my young but experienced mother's heart. <br />
<br />
See, when we first got transferred from one hospital to the Children's hospital, his fever had gone down very quickly. And I was tired. The nurses came in as always to check on him before they could let us sleep uninterrupted, every now and again, until he was stabilized. well, his core body temp had fallen. It fell too low. Like, it was time to hurry and get that body temp back up before it got worse and something bad happened. They brought in socks. They brought in so many blankets. And then they ran out to come in with a heat lamp. While I was waiting for the heat lamp, I took my baby all heavily wrapped with cords- once again- all over my baby, and began to pray. I have never been so concerned for one of my kids as I was with Cajetan. I hadn't ever had a need to be scared and concerned for even Sebastian, before. Touching his face, and his forehead, it was so cool. He was cold. I couldn't even begin to think WHY that was happening. I thought of a friend who just the month before lost her little 19 month old. I CANNOT GO THROUGH THAT. I CANNOT DO WHAT SHE DID. I AM ALONE, HERE, WITHOUT MY HUSBAND AND REST OF MY FAMILY, LORD. I was shaking, and had nothing to do but WAIT on GOD. <br />
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Has anyone ever had to literally WAIT on GOD? It can be gut-wrenching. It can be like walking on eggshells, because you never know how things will unfold, and all the while, you are trying to have the Faith St. Peter had while he was walking on the water with JESUS. And it often feels like He isn't working fast enough. I had so many things going through my mind that night. Like, WHAT IF THE WORST HAPPENS AND I HAVE TO CALL MY FAMILY BEARING AWFUL NEWS? Seriously. YOU WILL THINK THOSE THINGS, even in the midst of trying to keep your faith super-doubt-repelled. I called my husband, crying that I didn't want to go through another hospital stay with my baby, and he prayed with me over the phone which was so very comforting, and then began to pray myself over Cajetan. Begging God to raise Cajetan's body temp, and to not ask anymore from me at that moment, I hoped that the current situation would be all for now, until I could breathe easy for a bit. It wasn't anymore that 5 minutes later, and after saying the novena to the Infant of Prague, as I had been constantly touching and rubbing Cajetan's head and face to feel warmth, finally like a blast I could feel him warm up. I began balling so quickly at that touch, and felt so comforted, I felt so embraced and held by God, and I was so thankful. I was beside myself with how quickly my prayers were heard and answered. I didn't deserve His mercy. I didn't deserve His compassion. I didn't deserve a lot of things....<br />
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<a class="irc_mil i3597" data-href="http://www.gla.ac.uk/services/catholicchaplaincy/divinemercy/introduction/quotesfromthesaintsonmercy/" data-noload="" data-ved="0ahUKEwiE6sDQn7LKAhVKdT4KHRvhBgMQjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiE6sDQn7LKAhVKdT4KHRvhBgMQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gla.ac.uk%2Fservices%2Fcatholicchaplaincy%2Fdivinemercy%2Fintroduction%2Fquotesfromthesaintsonmercy%2F&bvm=bv.112064104,d.cWw&psig=AFQjCNG7od8KozRlC05toumOKehflBn8bQ&ust=1453161883348623" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk"><b></b></a><br />
My heart was flooded with so many things. So much thinking. In just those moments, He showed me how quickly life can change... and what an honor it truly is to suffer for Him. I was willing to endure ANYTHING and EVERYTHING necessary for His Glory. But, it is hard, and I had to lean on him for the sake of my child. I even thought of Our Lady. The fear she must have had at the thought of having Jesus taken from her. I thought of how she was told she'd have her heart pierced by a sword, never quite knowing what that would be. The fear she and Joseph felt upon knowing they had to flee to Egypt, to keep Jesus safe. To add to it, it was the first time I felt nothing was in my control. THERE WAS NOTHING I COULD DO to ensure my trip for a vacation would go smoothly while I had to leave my boys to stay in the hospital with the baby. I begged God to take care of things. Not to mention the struggle my husband would have at home without me returning on time. It was a moment of complete surrender. I tell you, sincerely, that in this moment, I had NEVER been able to SURRENDER as I did in that way. It was surreal. It involved that feeling in your stomach, your mind, your heart, and your lungs. A complete breath out, and final LET GO on a notecard, so-to-speak, that said, "Dear God, You know it all. Take all of this, all of me, because I have no where to turn, no where to go, except to YOU. Won't you please just handle this for me? And please, give me the grace I need to TRUST that you WILL. Thank you, and AMEN." <br />
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>>> To be continued :)Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-64650270400904651872016-01-17T19:07:00.002-05:002016-01-17T19:08:13.830-05:00God's Peace be with you in this NEW year of 2016!!! <br />
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Hello to all my followers - my family and friends, and all those who peek into "The Holy Motherhood" blog every now and again. It has been. . . a. . . WHILE! I have so much inside me to share, spill, you name it. God is GOOD. He has continued to bless my family yet again this past year, and that is why you have been missing me. But I am still here. <br />
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Good news coming: the Holy Motherhood blog will be moving within the next few months as I will be reassigning my encouragements to an actual domain! In order for this to be successful, I ask that you will share, share, share and pray and like all my posts you receive to your social media, so that other mommas can enjoy the encouragement offered here and join the Holy Motherhood club. <-- That's a pretty cool name, huh? <br />
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As many of you have probably noticed, I have changed the look of my blog for now, and simplified it, taking away some clutter. I hope you can navigate easily throughout the blog. I have a new message of encouragement to share, but I have been online long enough thus far today, and family calls. Pancakes and eggs for Sunday night dinner. I will hopefully be back to write a short message later tonight after all the kids are in bed. <br />
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<a class="irc_mil i3597" data-href="http://northfield.org/node/7835" data-noload="" data-ved="0ahUKEwjC6eDah7LKAhVHzz4KHeLuAYkQjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjC6eDah7LKAhVHzz4KHeLuAYkQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnorthfield.org%2Fnode%2F7835&psig=AFQjCNFMOLMYn5A03N8mhFrrk72rqdc5NA&ust=1453161798093686" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk"><img class="irc_mi" src="http://northfield.org/files/images/pancakes.preview.jpg" height="447" style="margin-top: 46px;" width="640" /></a><br />
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I hope that you all had a very blessed Christmas, and are off to a very special and encouraging New Year. Here is a tid-bit (my favorites, of course) for you until I come back! :)<br />
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<a class="irc_mil i3597" data-href="http://quotesgram.com/quotes-by-saints/" data-noload="" data-ved="0ahUKEwizwtWLiLLKAhUEaD4KHc7iDtcQjRwIBw" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwizwtWLiLLKAhUEaD4KHc7iDtcQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fquotesgram.com%2Fquotes-by-saints%2F&bvm=bv.112064104,d.cWw&psig=AFQjCNG7od8KozRlC05toumOKehflBn8bQ&ust=1453161883348623" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk"><img class="irc_mi" src="http://quotepixel.com/images/quotes/inspirational/sayings-you-aspire-to-great_14809-1.png" height="267" style="margin-top: 136px;" width="355" /></a><br />
<div class="irc_mutc" style="display: none;">
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" 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" 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MMM- smelling the dinner. . . but check back later! <br />
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God Bless you! May the Holy Family be with you. <br />
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MargaretMargaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-47262468825820158902014-12-29T17:21:00.004-05:002014-12-29T17:21:35.908-05:00Merry Christmas! Yes, It's true, that the Christmas a Season lasts until the Baptism of the Lord, liturgically speaking. It's great to not rush the actual season. I hope that you all enjoyed your special Christmas. Ours was definitely full and busy. It actually went much smoother than previous years, with the exception of the series of unfortunate events the two days before Christmas. I got over that bad luck quickly, so it's not worth writing about! ☺️ (Although you may find it entertaining....)<br>
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The one thing I would like to include is a message from a friend of mine, who gave me permission to use her Facebook post just before Christmas... I will have to add this in after I get onto my actual computer, so check back. The point is: you're frustrated. You are at a breaking point. You're not even close to feeling that Christmas Spirit.... Poor you. Everything's going wrong.... Why? Why? Why!? Christmas won't ever feel happy and cheery.... Have you ever told yourself that? Felt like a God left you out high and dry at the "most wonderful time of the year"? Imagine your most frustrating Christmas times or struggles, then keep reading. When my unfortunate events took place, I remembered her. I wanted to share it before Christmas, but lo, I got too busy. So I will go back, and say what I wanted to say anyway. First, here's an awesome message I'd like share from Knights of Truth Media about Christmas: http<a href="http://youtu.be/dYCyI3zK-5I" target="_blank">://youtu.be/dYCyI3zK-5I</a><br>
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Take a look!</div>
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So, preparing for Christmas usually involves just the surface. The decorating, the day after "Thanksgiving", (which Is ironic in a way), the garland the tinsel, the trees, the lights, the red, the blue, the gold, and the silver, the snowmen, need I add the yard blow up things, the wreaths, etc., etc., etc. Usually, I think' that is at the forefront of many minds when it comes to preparing for Christmas... </div>
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But, I'd like to propose another way to prepare for this special day. Think of how Our Lady and St. Joseph prepared for Jesus. The bare basics. Then right before His birth, they had to hop on the donkey and head all the way to Bethlehem. How did John the Baptist prepare? He went into the desert and fasted on locusts and honey and prayed before Jesus' ministry officially began. Both of these events seem an awful lot like the picture of sacrifice to me.... Think about it- Mary and Joseph went from door to door- found no place to be warm and comfortable to receive Jesus, and so the place of His holy birth was in the lowest state imaginable. They weren't really "festive" until it was actually happening.... So to speak. And so many of us rush this precious season! The day after--- how many trees do you see on the curb or hear neighbors already put their decor away? Christmas actually lasts 12 days- technically until the Baptism of Christ. So why not enjoy Christmas during Christmas instead of Advent "Coming"? Let's keep Advent a time of waiting as much as you can stand.... Advent is our time to be " preparing" not only on the outside to a point, but spiritually.... </div>
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Be prayerful. Plan well, so you're not overwhelmed. People go bonkers preparing at Christmastime so everything's perfect, and they wrestle with frustration! Let go- we all try to make it perfect for everyone else, but Christ is the only one who makes it perfect. Be at peace. Like a priest said recently in a homliy I heard: "Be peaceful. Don't kill yourself over Christmas. Funerals are no fun at Christmas." And I know- my great uncles funeral was just this year two days after Christmas. (It wasn't related to stress of the holidays, but either way, it's so sad.)<br>
</div><a href="http://hechoseyou.blogspot.com/2014/12/merry-christmas.html#more">Read more »</a>Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-78093173188381560332014-12-10T22:51:00.001-05:002014-12-10T22:57:06.844-05:00What a Summer and Fall! But Hello Again!You know how everyone seems to get super busy in the Summer?<br />
Like with friends and family.... weddings... .. reunions..... parties.... etc? <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cousins and I-- I have since chopped my hair! </td></tr>
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Well, I am back, but after a looooong---too long---- break, I suppose. Between raising 8 kids, and throwing in the excitement from having one with special needs, (which btw he is doing FABULOUS- so it kind -of doesn't count), and one with continued trouble with "moderate Crohns" at age 9, a wedding, and travels, and homeschooling all summer--- ick--- yep. I was exhausted and could NOT bring myself to get on the computer when all I really wanted to do was indulge in my own relaxation. ???<br />
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It has been quite an eventful Summer and Fall. For sure! My kids have done very well in this year's XC season, and have since, qualified for the 2014 National XC JUNIOR OLYMPICS. I thought that it would be super fun to take them (all the way in SC!), but now I am feeling stressed and RUSHED- above all things- with Christmas. Exactly what I was hoping to avoid. I like to be honest on my blog, because "normal" people aren't perfect, right? We have been having some tough spots this season. <br />
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My husband recently left his job with a mega- millions kinda' company to start off on his own.... It has been a leap of Faith. Definitely. No jokes here. We are adjusting to some minor changes, but God has been taking care of the bills, at least. So that is good. <br />
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Sebastian (our son with Down's) has been doing so great! He is growing up and is amazing. I will share a video of how lovely his presence is in our life: <br />
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I hope you will enjoy. It documents his first year right up to before his first bday... (which btw was VERY special.) :)</div>
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So, Nathan, who is my sick 9 year old-- we still have to see an actual remission from him. He is taking pills, and gone off steroids, and gone back on them, to be weaning to the final dosage now. I have started him on a gluten-free diet, and hope to see SOMETHING go in to a positive direction. ... planning on adding "Essential Oils", too. . . At least he is a good sport when it comes to not giving up in his running-- he gets very frustrated with his Crohn's though. :- /</div>
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I have to say. . . no matter the family values, or what you have going on in your family, dealing with a sick child takes a TOLL on you. On all the members. This has been my breaking point. Several times since my last posts, I have been wondering where God is. Is He listening to me? Does He even care? Why is this happening to me and nothing seems to change? TIRING? ABSOLUTELY! </div>
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I realize that what if this is St. John of the Cross's "dark night of the soul"? Uhhhh... Lord? Maybe come back then? That's how I feel. I know that many struggle with a whole lot of worser things than me. But it's still a challenge. Especially since I still homeschool throughout it all. Do I have to get up in the morning? IS it really past the latest time I can sleep? </div>
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I know that there are people who have gone before us and done it. I read this amazing book, called "<u>QUOTABLE SAINTS</u>" by Rhonda De Sola Chervin, which gives a lot of encouragement. But, I am still here, and still on the journey, still hurting and waiting for a drink of cold water and a rest. Why must the Good Lord push us so? I truly believe in redemptive suffering, for if we are to die with Christ in order to rise again with Him, it must count for something. We must all walk our own "Little Calvary" in a sense. You may or may not agree, but our suffering cannot go to waste. Other words, our prayers are useless as well. </div>
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Here are some of my favorite quotes I have leaned on recently.</div>
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<strong><em>"Do something good for someone you like least, today." ~ St. Augustine</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"Without work, it is impossible to have fun." ~ St Thomas Aquinas</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"He that complains or murmurs is not perfect, nor is he a good Christian." ~ St. John of the Cross</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"We should not engage in fruitless or controversial discussions." ~ St. Basil</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"Disorder in society is the result of disorder in the family." ~ St. Angela Merici</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"Christ made my soul beautiful with the jewels of grace and virtue. I belong to Him whom the angels serve." ~St. Agnes</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"Let us learn to cast our hearts into God." ~ St. Bernard</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"Anything that does not lead you to God is a hindrance." Root it out and throw it far from you!" </em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>~ Venerable Jose Escriva</em></strong></div>
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<strong><em>"I am concealing Myself [Christ] from you, so that you can discover by yourself what you are without Me." ~ St. Margaret of Cortona</em></strong></div>
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This last one hits me hard every time I feel He left me. We aren't anything without Our Precious Lord. But we are so stubborn, aren't we? That we <em><strong>dare to think</strong></em> we can take care of ourselves. It's a tough one for sure, but we have to know even in our roughest moments, that although it appears He has forsaken us --- even Jesus felt that way, as He cried out on the Cross--- he is only awaiting the moment of Glory-- through us --solely for Himself. That's hard to accept, especially since we are proud, trying to be humble! </div>
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I hear all the time how lovely my kids are. Its a snapshot, usually. But not one of our regular struggles at home. I have to laugh in honesty when people compliment us because I know. I "KNOW" the truth, haha. It hurts sometimes, but we all have it. The Truth is available to everyone who accepts it, of course, but we also know our "truth". That is where God tests us I believe. Can we walk away and attempt to continue to change? Or do we fall into despair and circle around ourselves getting nowhere like a dog who chases his tail?</div>
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I hope that you are all well. I hope that you can be lifted up to enjoy this Christmas Season. We all struggle, but PEACE is coming. Its so close. We must prepare the Way for The Lord. Make straight His Paths. Let's cast our troubles onto Him, and take rest in His Peace. I know I will have to do the same. We must strive for holiness. And that comes from TRYING; He knows our hearts. </div>
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God Bless you. Check back, as I will have an Advent Post in a few days. </div>
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You can also check out my post on Preparing for the Savior. You will enjoy it. </div>
<a href="http://hechoseyou.blogspot.com/2010/12/how-am-i-preparing-for-jesus.html#links">Holy Motherhood! *So let there be children!*: How am I preparing for Jesus' Coming/Christmas?#links</a><br />
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J. M. J. </div>
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-40045031444626951602014-08-11T14:09:00.002-04:002014-08-11T14:14:27.929-04:00Feast of Saint Claire of Assisi <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Pintrest.com</td></tr>
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St. Claire knew it. It's all part of our Christian calling, right? Through the Sacrament of baptism, we die and rise with Christ. But we must die to ourselves through self-mortification throughout life. We can certainly choose WHO or WHAT we want to become, or become like. If we wish to be like Christ, and perfected in the way He is, it requires that dying to self. Holy cow, is it hard, though. Certainly. Do we want to give up sometimes? Yes. But we must keep going. He knows our efforts, for sure. I love the fact that she fought off an army of men with just the Holy Eucharist. That's amazing. She knew Jesus was the only way. I am thinking of Fr.'s homily yesterday at Mass: He was talking about how Elijah was growing weary and wanted to give up after the fact he knew that Jezebel wanted him dead, and he killed the 400 men in a "standoff" over the false god Baal. Peter also grew anxious in the storm while he was walking on water with Jesus, and began to sink. So many of life's storms can distract us away from keeping focused on God, and we think we can do it alone without him. But we can't. Or at least, we cannot go as far as we could if we kept close to Him. And, of course, I believe it directly reflects how our joy will be filled in eternity. (*You can read my last post on my take on overflowing cups.) <br />
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My late uncle passed away on this day 21 years ago. His death was hard on the family at the time, but we all heal a little easier with Our Lord beside us. I remember my dad today, as today marks his 5th month since parting us. He can comfort us in those times when we turn to Him. When I think of my dad's passing, I recall the same thoughts, and for sure, it was the reason we could have Hope. Uniting that with the cross, truly. And then we realize what a beautiful thing it truly is to die with Christ. It's a deeper idea than one would typically think could be.<br />
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I think most people tend to be afraid of "Dying with Christ". . . but, it can be. It means giving up a whole lot of US. There are many Christians in the world, today, suffering for their faith. Our brothers and sisters in faith in Israel are persecuted. We must remember how "deep" that bond should go. We must be wearing our faith OUT LOUD so that others can SEE and HEAR "WHO" we REPRESENT. Only then, can we find true peace, and change the world over and over through Him. <br />
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I would like to give an update on my life happenings, but will do so in another post. There is a good reason I have been away from blogging this past summer. Illness, recovery, wedding, vacation, and fun among other things. It's that season. I will post pictures and joys of life in another coming post, and the MARY GARDEN---is gorgeous! <br />
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God bless you all. Be Loud. <br />
In Christ! <br />
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J.M.J.<br />
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<br />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-62653118716824036252014-06-17T23:10:00.005-04:002014-06-17T23:11:18.632-04:00Overflowing Barrel or Teacup of JOY for the Lord<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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All this week, (It's only Tuesday, I know! But it's been since last week really), I have been talking to my kids about what we have been reading together from <em><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/faith-explained-leo-j-trese/1001161148?ean=2940012634092" target="_blank">THE FAITH EXPLAINED</a></em> by Leo J. Trese-- Why did God make us? Why are we here? Simple question, but lots of room for talk. Well, I just wanted to explain our latest talk that has been from this week. We have been talking about how we will experience our JOY in Heaven, and how it depends on how we love God here, on Earth, first. <br />
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Yes, if we are lukewarm, we already know from His Word that we cannot attain Heaven. We cannot merely "think" that "God is cool; Go God!", but 1) not be even baptized 2) Do nothing to grow closer to Him, such as lead a prayer filled life, and think we can have Heaven. Luke warmness is best described as having one foot in, but purposely keeping one foot out because we cannot live without the world, or the things of the world. We will respond to the Lord and Heaven as we respond to Him here. Think about it: Take your relationship with God NOW. How do you feel about Him NOW? Are you totally on fire for Him? Or are you just kind-of eh about Him? When we see Him later, after there is no turning back, we will tend to have the same response. <br />
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Think about this for a minute: How many of you out there LOVE classical, instrumental music? Are you totally MOVED by it? Or are you kind of waiting for it to end because you aren't "in" to it? If you continue for years to try to appreciate it, perhaps you will find some kind of positive respect for it, and enjoy it more than you first did. If you continue to change the station as soon as you hear it, with no real care for it, because "it's not for you", then when you are before the grand Performance, it will not be too enjoyable for you. This is a very good analogy for how we love God here and now and what will come afterwards. <br />
We will similarly respond to God when we meet him. Those of us who truly chose Him throughout our life will have our joy to the full, as He promised. Those who give everything to serve Him will feel a barrelful of joy: they are the ones that classical musical brings tears to their eyes, and some will experience their joy, by a full teacup; they are generally moved by the music. There is a difference, yes, but we will all have our "cup", no matter the size, full. <br />
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My kids of course, want to have their "cup" be a barrel. They want to experience God's Presence to the MAX. I do too! We must become so in LOVE with Him though. This is where self-mortification comes into the equation. Dying to self. And giving every last item of ourselves and our lives to HIM. If we hold anything back, perhaps we are choosing a smaller "cup" for Jesus to fill later. If we completely empty ourselves out to HIM, and give him a barrel to replace our lives with, we will be receiving that barrel in LOVE in return later.<br />
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I really feel like I haven't had a good as this post in a long time. Thank You, Dear Holy Spirit. And I pray that the Holy Spirit move these readers to give more of themselves in some way to You, and Your Will. J.M.J.<br />
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<br />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-11171270287605904692014-06-16T17:06:00.002-04:002014-06-16T17:22:16.594-04:00Taste of Healthy and a Race VictoryThere are so many things to enjoy right now. . . especially health. LORD, I APPRECIATE THIS TIME OF HEALTH-- it's more than we have seen in months. Sebastian's doing ok, we aren't "sick", no colds, etc., although Nathan still struggles with his disease. Overall, we are trucking along. I am feeling the urge to get into shape for my brothers upcoming wedding. :-) I have a few goals in mind that I would like to reach by next month! <br />
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We are also resuming our regular meal plan, and healthier choice foods. The summer is approaching fast, the weather is warm, the garden is blooming, and we cant get better than fresh air and play. We are also trying to avoid any illnesses! This feels good for a change! :)<br />
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I have so much to share, but not enough time at the moment to go through it all. <br />
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Kids have races and track and field meets coming up this week, (SUPER EXCITED MOM HERE!) and we have also resumed our homeschooling lessons from the books. Kids not so enthused, but hey. No pain no gain! Here are some of the pics from the latest race we did. The kids are doing great; Nathan just wishes he was healthier and physically able to complete at the level he used to, so he isn't doing too many rigorous activities yet. Keep praying though! They are so appreciated! <br />
Here are our pics-- it was a 5k. They all beat me. Even Mary beat me! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Genevieve, age 13</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary, age 7 (Places first in her age group for 7-8 yr old girls -- Yeah!)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camille, age 10</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thad, age 12</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the Victor of the Day is . . . Mary!</td></tr>
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<strong><em><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/2timothy/4" target="_blank"><span class="bcv">7</span><sup>*</sup> I have competed well; I have finished the race;<sup>f</sup> I have kept the faith. <span class="bcv">8</span><sup>*</sup> From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day,<sup>g</sup> and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearance. --- 2 Timothy, Chapter 4</a></em></strong></div>
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Run Hard, Don't Quit! God counts on us! We chose whether we will be part of His Victory! So,. perhaps this post today is a good reminder for us to keep the Faith! I will be honest, when I was running, (and Mary mentioned this, too) I kept thinking to myself. . . "Where is the finish?!" It was Mary's very first 5K, so she was thinking the same thing. But, seriously, though, don't we usually feel the same way on a daily basis when we are out in the field of mothering? I often find myself just exhausted, and anticipate my husband to come through the door and save me. Haha! I think, "where is the "finish line" for the day? When is bedtime coming? I will have to take my own advice. It's tiring, for sure, but we will be rewarded on that day; and hopefully our husbands and kids will be, too. </div>
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Jesus, keep your Mother with us, and may she show us the way to a holy motherhood! God bless you!</div>
Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-74477280589693842422014-06-10T11:14:00.000-04:002014-06-10T11:14:04.071-04:00Have Faith, and Remain Strong!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ain't that the TRUTH!? *smile*</div>
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Thank God for His Mercy and Grace! </div>
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I like to think if this quote after a rough day of mothering. We have bad days, yes. We also have days full of JOY. We are His Saints in the making, as long as we remain faithful! </div>
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God Bless! </div>
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J.M.J.</div>
Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-10292763039183332712014-06-07T19:01:00.000-04:002014-06-07T19:08:33.910-04:00Mary's Funeral Song ChoiceThe other day, Mary tells me that she wants this specific song to be her funeral song. I have NO idea other than her thinking of her Grandpa -- (Oompha!)-- of why she would come up with this idea. It has been a daily request for the past few days. . .seriously. But It is sooooo cute and funny! <br />
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So, there it is: Mary would like this song for her funeral song. . . someday. Hah!</div>
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I think its funny, because if you are thinking of the fact that in death we are "letting it go" (the earthly life), and such, it kinda' would fit. I just don't like that this song seems so . . .oh, what's the word? "Inward"? I have NOT seen this movie, but it seems rebellious in nature to me, just the song, I guess. I haven't seen the movie to really appreciate the song, so I am judging this based on just this video. </div>
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Today of course, she heard another song that she thought she liked, and asked if I would play that one for her funeral, too. It cracks me up because she has no concept of the fact that I will MORE THAN LIKELY NOT be here for her funeral. Oh, out of the mouths of babes. . . </div>
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I have another post to put up, but I need to wait until a little later. Updates on the kids' race this weekend! We have a victor! Check back in soon! </div>
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<strong> And remember, PLEASE leave a comment! It makes blogging so much more fun! :-)</strong></div>
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-11755134664403387612014-06-05T22:43:00.002-04:002014-06-05T22:51:22.795-04:00True Emotions Yeild True Understanding Pave Path to True LoveTonight I was able to share company with a friend I haven't visited with in quite some time. Mostly, it was due to illnesses circulating, and since I have to keep my family healthy at all possible, in order to keep Sebastian healthy, it has been what feels forever. I was so glad to get out and have company with a friend. It was so nice. <br />
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Towards the end of the evening's visit, she was giving me a rundown of her father's condition and current situation. From illness to cancer, remission, new cancer, and illness and pneumonia, diabetes, and other things, I was beginning to feel quite overwhelmed with it all. Before, it wouldn't have hit me the way it did tonight. I experienced something within me--a compassion-- I would not have been able to feel at the level I did had it not been for my dad's suffering and death. Tears filled my eyes, and my heart raced with emotion. It was strange to me. It seems that the suffering of the those in the world, those closest to us, who we cannot help in any way other than to pray our hearts out for, is so overwhelming. We truly have a submission to God's Will that we cannot abandon, especially when we have seen Him work through others in the same situations. I felt a sincere care and concern come over me. <br />
I realize that once we experience an emotion that we haven't experienced before, God has called us already to a closer step into His Heart. It becomes the Passion of Our Lord manifest in our lives, and the sorrow of His Mother for all the World, to reconcile with Her Son. It leads us closer to the ability to love others the way God loves, perhaps. <br />
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Once we can feel for a perfect stranger, and I do not mean just feeling pity for an unfortunate person or situation with the attitude of "Oh, that is too bad", we are truly loving one another. Our heart breaks in unity with Jesus and Holy Trinity for the ones suffering. We begin to know that true sympathy for one another which becomes love. I pray the Holy Spirit help me to understand and learn the deeper meaning of my experience, so that I can love others the way I should. Its amazing; surreal. I wish I could take this simple situation and explain better the bigger picture. <br />
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I think that so many of us -- our culture, really has trained us-- to be more self-centered, and do and work for what is for ourselves, and it's rare that we can truly give of ourselves for others, and that means true sympathy, understanding, and love, which comes from deep within. Yes, there are good people out there too, of course who fulfill the call to true love to others. I cannot forget to mention that they are absolutely out there, and what a blessing it will be for anyone who comes into their path! But, it seems sporadic among us, sometimes. I am very grateful to know several people and families in particular that God has blessed us with in my area that have manifested God's true sympathy and love for my family, and others around us. I am also thankful God has taken me deep into His Sacred Heart to fully appreciate this glimpse of who I should be from now on. The experience is priceless.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, Sacred Heart of Jesus, bring me deeper into your Heart, that mine may become more like Yours.</td></tr>
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God has been taking me through a journey of, yes, a lifetime in the past 6 1/2 months. As well as my family as a whole. I must lean on Him, totally, to get through the changes he places at our doorstep, and those at the doorstep of <em>my</em> heart, which are meant just for <em>me</em>. It is just so much. I feel like God is asking me to exit my "old" life and ways of living and what I used to know, and walk with Him into a new version of a life that I somehow became qualified by His Grace <em>for</em>. It's so humbling. He indeed handed me a precious baby in a sweet basket (and a child who suffers from a chronic illness), asking me to love as I have never loved before, embrace His calling as I have never before understood how to do, and give my will to Him without resisting and without knowing what's ahead, and completely trusting in His Will instead. For the last 13 years of my life, I knew exactly what to do; my life was "easy" to say the least. Things came too easy and could be taken for granted. Now, I am in an oblivion, with a blindfold, only knowing where to step next if I can keep holding on to The Lord's hand to guide me. It's an unknown path. A new path. A new everything. And all I can do is surrender everything I <em>thought I knew</em> into His hands for safekeeping. And trust He knows what to do with my heart, and my heart's treasures. My emotions run like a stream from my heart tonight . . . in hopes that God blesses them for His Glory, that I might learn a lesson that gives Him joy and glorification. For all things that are good are for His glory. I am merely an instrument of His. A conversion of any size is still a conversion and a victory for Him in Heaven. <br />
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*Please pray for the person's family anonymously mentioned here, as prayers are needed. Thank you.*<br />
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J.M.J.<br />
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<em><strong>Don't forget to leave your comments! This is where so much action can take place, and sharing, and all that good stuff! Leave your comments, please!</strong></em> <br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-2442913368193631762014-06-04T14:22:00.002-04:002014-06-04T14:41:43.154-04:00The Mary Garden Part 2 <span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Coming along . . . It has truly taken some hard work and labor of love for Our Lady! We have broken ground, and are working on filling in with some topsoil and beautiful flowers! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="irc_dsh"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">photo </span><a class="irc_hl irc_hol" data-ved="0CAQQjB0" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&docid=C3QDTfh9vtRPkM&tbnid=FntTlxj1L4BzmM:&ved=0CAQQjB0&url=http%3A%2F%2Fglor-raysofsunshine.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F09%2Fbirthday-of-our-lady_8.html&ei=mFSPU4jMHI7hsATDoYDoDQ&bvm=bv.68235269,d.aWw&psig=AFQjCNFN0NPtdcoJBXK54BHZsrN16-xrAw&ust=1401988613116303"><span class="irc_ho" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #1a0dab; font-size: xx-small;">glor-raysofsunshine.blogspot.com</span></span></a></span><span class="irc_dsh irc_msc"><a class="irc_hl irc_msl" data-ved="0CAYQhxw" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=our+lady+mary&sa=X&biw=1600&bih=697&tbm=isch&tbs=simg:CAQSWQkWe1OXGPUvgBpFCxCwjKcIGjwKOggCEhT3FboSgA3SFd4V7B7DEpofvxLlEhognEKw2uufDzytupoHdnJxLUjel-rjUUZhAoUnyNT8ltUMIQt0A034fb7U"></a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We have some plants in! (Here are a few pictures of the work in progress.) We still have much to do. We were so gracious to receive a pair of apple and pear trees, and a blueberry bush from a friend! It's awesome to add to the lovely landscaping, it had been a true gift and we cannot wait to plant them! I am so super excited to get this all completed! Once our garden is finished and full and growing, and we get our new yard finished, it will be so pleasing to see! I am hoping to create a very welcoming pathway to our house. :-) Take a look at this image of Our Lady, for a moment. She looks to Heaven. Just as we as moms should be looking to Heaven in all that we do. She is such a purifying example of what obedience and joy in our vocations should look like. She gave her "yes", her "fiat" to God from the very beginning. I love how she is portrayed with such a glow about her. She radiates the reflection of her Son's glory, as His Holy Mother. We are so excited to finish this garden for her honor. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us mothers, now and forever. Amen! </span><br />
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*Elizabeth Hope and Peter when we went on a nature hike last week*</div>
(Elizabeth is growing up so fast! Just look at that maturing face! Aw!)<br />
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*Peter has a flower for you!* </div>
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*Brotherly love, aww!*</div>
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*Beautiful rose bush </div>
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for our new garden*</div>
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*Our Blessed Mother statue in the center of the garden*</div>
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I have been reading <em>The Apostolate of Holy Motherhood</em>, and it is truly inspiring! I will be sharing some of what I have read in future posts. <br />
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Check out this website for some beautiful prayers from Fatima: <a href="http://static.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/assets/Fatima_Prayers.pdf">http://static.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/assets/Fatima_Prayers.pdf</a><br />
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My favorite right now that I say often is this one:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">My God, I believe, I adore, I trust, and I love thee! I beg pardon for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not trust, and do not love thee. Amen.</span> </span></b><br />
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<strong>And . . .</strong><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">O my Jesus, forgive us our sins; save us from the fires of hell; </span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">lead all souls into Heaven, especially those who are in most need of thy mercy</span></span></b><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">J.M.J.</span></strong><br />
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Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-27397692490149091232014-06-03T17:13:00.001-04:002014-06-03T23:45:33.694-04:00Sebastian's Update and Other StuffLast week Sebastian had a routine kidney ultrasound, and we were hoping for some good news: improvement. He also had a routine check on a specimen to determine the status of his colon, due to the infection he had several weeks ago. Today, I recieved a call from his doctor. I was anxious of course, as I ended up playing phone tag throughout the day before I could get the exact news. His kidney diagnosis: remains the same as before. Oh, it was like my stomach ached, at the news. No improvement that we could see, at least. We will still conitue to pray that his hydronephrosis will not cause any more infections of his urniary tract. His colon status also remains the same, positive for the bad bacteria, that we had hoped to get rid of. So I am contiuning a probiotic in his bottle daily, to help. He isn't complaining and he conitues to play happily, so we aren't going to worry, and we will routinely check him again in two weeks. In the meantime, we wait to hear from the big hospital in our "area" (Sebastian's pediatric GI group) So, please pray away for us, as and when you pray. <br />
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State testing is finished! Time to submit them in, and wait for results! The kids hopefully have done well. <br />
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We have taken a trip to the library to beat the heat for the day. Elizabeth made me laugh a little when she found this cute little "Farm Animals" board book, (the same one Mary had to check out a million time as a preschooler) and the look on her face was of pure excitement, and true joy. So, I conceded to check it out for her. Round two, I just foresee this book getting checked out again a million more times, haha! You just <i>know </i>how precious and adorable little farm animals are! <br />
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I have some food for thought for you. . . On Sunday, in our church's bulletin, Father had made a statement that we can look to animals at times to see how we as humans should behave and treat each other. It was an interesting thought, but it makes sense. <i>It reminds me of the Wolf of Gubbio</i> and how Saint Francis thought to treat and guide the Wolf as to make the townspeople less fearful of him, and actually change their thoughts and ideas about him. (The Wolf). What a concept. This brings me back to the old saying, "<i>Treat others the way you wish to be treated</i>." I have been having a difficult time in trying to reimplement this idea even within the walls of my home considering all the trials and stresses lately, and how much more irritable we have all become. Poor Nathan, especially for him, it is hard since he just wants his old life back, he cant help but to think less about others and more of himself. I pray God help him to see outward of himself during these times. What a way to learn an important lesson, heh? We all need to remember that exact thing. It's so hard to see others when something is happening to or within us. But we all need to try. We all focus inward during times of struggle and trail. Think about Jesus in His precious trials of His Passion and The Cross. Empty out to Him, unite with Him your struggles, instead of pouring them inward to ourselves. Take up your cross in joy! Pray for the Grace! <br />
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J.M.J. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo artislife.blogspot.com</td></tr>
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<a href="http://artislifeif.blogspot.com/2008/06/baby-paintings-vol-1.html" target="_blank">paintings of kids with animals :)</a>Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6787292493355845532.post-73767350092918368262014-06-02T18:38:00.000-04:002014-06-02T18:49:35.365-04:00The Mary Garden Part 1<div style="text-align: left;">
Late last night, we got started on our "Mary Garden" that we wanted to plant for almost 2 or 3 years now. We took a nice ol' trip to the Home Depot, and spent enough on flowers and such, but we had a list. Did you know that there are actual flowers named for the Blessed Virgin Mother? Some obvious ones are the rose, and the lilies, of course, but there are others: corn flower, dianthus, marigold, morning glory, spearmint, sage, thyme, zinnia, and many others. So we attempted to get all the kinds of flowers that we would need. Whoa- what a shopping trip! It was quite fun, though, and might I add that a perfectionist shouldn't go to the Home Depot because she may get all these fancy ideas in her head like say, projects. And if you give a perfectionist a project, well, you know. (I should write a book similar to Laura Numeroff's <strong><u>If you Give a Mouse a Cookie</u></strong>. . . . haha. "<u>If you put a Perfectionist in a Home Improvement Store</u>") Anyhow, It was hard occasionally to "stay on task" with the garden being there! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from facebook</td></tr>
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So, thanks to my husband who is a "car guy", he was able to unstuck a friend's truck that he so graciously got stuck on a boulder near our driveway in an attempt to back in with a load of topsoil. This gives me a laugh. . . because he REALLY needed my help! </div>
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Yeah, it sort-of looked liked that! LOL!</div>
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Back to the garden. . .</div>
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We live literally on a pile of rocks. . . haha--- I just realized our house was "built on the rock", *laugh a little*</div>
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It is treacherous trying to dig a garden! Especially with all those rocks in the ground. We need much more topsoil before we can do anymore, and a huge piece of equipment. I told my husband it'd be wise to rent something soon, if we are to finish this and have this landscaping project look as nice as it has cost so far! Right? So, we (the kids and I) are trying to be patient, as we just want to get in and plant, plant, plant! </div>
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We do have a vegetable and herb garden to plant too. But one at a time! </div>
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Our garden is going to be such a beautiful sight and it's going to smell nice too, once it's completed! It is to honor Our Lady, of course. I had to remind my kids that <em>would </em>come out and work and toil with me, that that hard work it takes to prepare the garden so that it can become something beautiful, is the same thing we must do with our lives in order to get to Heaven, and it's true that he is preparing for us a place in Heaven that is B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! I can only imagine being surrounded by the most beauty anyone could ever want! There's nothing in the world like passing such a botanical arrangement of fragrances!</div>
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(See <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tea-Cake-Saints-Alice-Cantrell/dp/0976469154" target="_blank">Tea & cake with the Saints</a></u> for the book we got the idea from.)</div>
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Our Lady deserves to be honored! We are hoping that she will see to it that our garden blesses her as our Mother! </div>
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Blessings! </div>
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J.M.J.</div>
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<br />Margaret@Holy Motherhoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06228748794937560997noreply@blogger.com0