Have you ever found something that meant so much to you?  It's partly because I adore the person who stated it and it cuts to the core of the problem in society.  The following was on a bookmark that I received at last year's DCCW Convention that will be going on this weekend - Ladies, I wish you a sisterhood full of spiritual enlightenment.
 
"Peace and war begin at home.  If we truly want peace in the world, let us begin by loving one another in our own families.  If we want to spread joy, we need for every family to have joy."  - Mother Teresa

Just as the "cliff swallows" return to the Mission San Juan Capistrano in California to reclaim their old nests - Gracemarie must come back home to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Orem for a visit now and then.  The only difference is that they are cute little guys that migrate twice a year and I'm on pilgrimage, not as cute and without wings.  (Although I do fly in my dreams, in case you wanted to know.)
 
There is something special about giving and receiving those warm hugs from old friends and those who are your adopted family.  May God bless you all!

 The Passion of Jesus Christ began today for the salvation of mankind! Coming soon is Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. There is a part of me that feels that we just finished celebrating New Year’s Day and wondering where the time has gone.  May your Holy Week, dear readers, be one of fruitful reflection and preparation for the Easter celebrations.  For those traveling, may you be safe and may God be with you.

Holy Week Prayer  - By: Fr. Richard Rohr

I thank you, Lord Jesus, for becoming a human being
so I do not have to pretend or try to be God.
I thank you, Lord Jesus, for becoming finite and limited
so I do not have to pretend that I am infinite and limitless.
I thank you, crucified God, for becoming mortal
so I do not have to try to make myself immortal.
I thank you, Lord Jesus, for becoming inferior
so I do not have to pretend that I am superior to anyone.
I thank you for being crucified outside the walls,
for being expelled and excluded like the sinners and outcasts,
so you can meet me where I feel that I am,
always outside the walls of worthiness.
Amen.