Triumph of The Cross - September 14th

We worship your cross, O Lord,

and we praise and glorify

your holy resurrection,

for the wood of the cross

has brought joy to the world.

Joy

Joy does not depend on sunny circumstances,

good news, or happy endings.

It comes from knowing that whatever happens,

God loves me; that whatever happens,

He is preparing a better place for those who love Him.

Memorial of St. Gregory the Great

My Prayer Today

Father, our source of life,

you know my weakness.

May I reach out with joy

to grasp your hand

and walk more readily

in your ways.

.

Teach me to be loving not only in great

and exceptional moments, but above

all in the ordinary events of daily life

where I more often then not

fail miserably.

.

This I pray, amen.

January 1st, Mary, Mother of God

Joy to you, O Virgin Mary,
Mother of the Lord!

Father,
source of light in every age,
the virgin conceived and bore your Son
who is called Wonderful God, Prince of Peace.
May her prayer, the gift of a mother's love,
be your people's joy through all ages.
May her response, born of a humble heart,
draw your Spirit to rest on your people.

Grant this through Christ our Lord.

A Day of Joy

The last I saw her was 35 years ago until today. My friend, from high school, who lived a few doors down the street, my friend. I was in her wedding, she in mine. Life and distance between us these past years. For those who know me I do not use the word friend lightly. It is given to precious few and to her with whom I spent today. Today which has given me a tremendous gift of blessings and friendship.

We visited her mother's grave, shared much conversation, noon time mass, and lunch. We drove to the street we lived on how many years ago. And in all this time, nothing has changed between us, it is the same easy, caring, loving friend. I know that God has brought her back into my life and I am thankful. She holds a part of my heart and I hers, after all, that's what a friend does.

Everyone who waits for the Lord finds joy.

With simplicity of heart, I have joyfully offered everything to you, my God.

The Lord has done great things for us,

and we are filled with joy.

Psalm 126:3

Recipe for a Happy Heart

5 pints love
3 quarts care
4 cups laughter
2 cups hope

mix together
sprinkle with joy and understanding
bake in sunshine
share with friends

May your heart be filled with His Light,

your day with His blessings
your life with His grace.

Wishing you Joy in all things.

A Work In Progress

Joy

defined as: 1 a: the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : delight b: the expression or exhibition of such emotion : gaiety
2: a state of happiness or felicity : bliss 3: a source or cause of delight

share a hug ... share a smile ... share a blessing ...

share the Joy.