Randy Pausch Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams

Quick story as how this post came to be. I had breakfast with my friend, Tricia, yesterday, and she was sharing her experience this semester following a hospice nurse and how this video was part of her death and dying class. Ron wanted to order a book so we stopped at Borders on the way to Neil's birthday party. When I walked through the door, Randy's book was IN MY FACE. You all know how I feel about miracles. This was no accident, and before we got to the other side of Evansville I was completely engrossed in his book.

This is an incredible story by an incredible man. The book is much like this video. But both (yes, I read the book before I watched this)gave me, again, model of great humility in the way of dying. My friend, Margaret, did much the same. She continued to "live" in the light of her dying.

May God give me the strength to carry myself in life as they LIVED their life in dying. Please read the book too. Thank you, Tricia!!! This is remarkable!!! You may not want to or have the time to listen to the entire lecture, but please give it a try! It's worth every minute!!

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Thanks be to God!!!

Peace...

Photo by Robin

When I least expect it the beautiful words of another awaken me to the glory of God. It has happened again today as I read Bread for the Journey, A Daybook of Wisdom and Faith by Henri J. M. Nouwen. The gift to me is my gift extended to you today, as I cannot give what has already been given.

Jesus Is a Peacemaker

Jesus, the Blessed Child of the Father, is a peacemaker. His peace doesn't mean only absence of war. It is not simply harmony or equilibrium. His peace is the fullness of well-being, gratuitously given by God. Jesus says, "Peace I leave to you, my peace I give you, a peace which the world cannot give, this is my gift to you" (John 14:27)

Peace is Shalom--well-being of mind, heart, and body, individually and communally. It can exist in the midst of a war-torn world, even in the midst of unresolved problems and increasing human conflicts. Jesus made that peace by giving his life for his brothers and sisters. This is no easy peace, but it is everlasting and it comes from God. Are we willing to give our lives in the service of peace?

I guess this what I am asking myself as I make the application to be a Providence Associate. "Am I willing to give my life in the service of peace?" I'm stepping into the unknown, so I pray heartily for the companionship of the Holy Spirit.

God bless you all and have a Grand Weekend!!

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Thanks be to God!!!

I'm Behind Again...

I always have such good intentions and though I started it late in the year I had hoped to stay on course. "What IS she talking about?!"

Just after Lent I found at Cornerstone, while shopping for First Communion gifts, My Daily Catholic Bible, 20 minute Daily Readings. Thinking this would keep me focused on reading the Bible in a more regular format, I purchased it and began my sojourn. I can make all sorts of excuses for what happened but none will really do. Suffice it to say I am now behind. I entirely missed the reading for Nehemiah and the text is already four days into Tobit. Well, Tobit is one of my favorite books so I will endeavor to be more committed. I will try to catch up and stay on course.

I Pray:

Please, Father, allow this wayward child to find my way through your word to the Word, without taking so many side trips that I lose my way. Keep me focused and attentive to your wishes, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, in the name of Christ Jesus. Amen.

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Thanks be to God!

Wonderful Holiday Weekend...

I had such a nice weekend. It wasn't hectic, just nice. Attended Mass Saturday evening at St. Joseph's where Kellie, our grand daughter, received the Serra Award. Sunday went to Anna's graduation picnic!!! Monday was just quiet...

Mom sent me this via email and so I think I will share it with you as we start back to work for a "short week" and take a walk down memory lane. At least it's memory lane for me as I graduated from high school in 1965...Please enjoy!

Cars We Drove


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For the good times and the not-so-good times
Thanks be to God!

Gifts of Words, Music and Flowers.

I was given this beautiful gift today. The words hopeful, the music restful, and the pictures reflective. It's for all who dream and hope and love. It was given in friendship and mutual concern for ponds and waterlilies, but it is also wonderful because of the gift itself. So to SMA at A World of Beauty, I say a most sincere, "Thank you!" I also say, "Thank you," to you all and please enjoy!!!

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Thanks be to God!