In The Darkness, Shine More Light

In The Darkness, Shine More Light

         Sometimes we go through challenging times and it darkens many areas of our lives, but when we rely on our Support Group changes can happen. To brighten the situation may require us to shine more of our own light.

Ernest Hemingway once said:  “In our darkest moments, we don’t need solutions or advice.  What we yearn for is simply human connection — a quiet presence, a gentle touch. These small gestures are the anchors that hold us steady when life feels like too much.”

“Please don't try to fix me.  Do not take on my pain or push away my shadows.  Just sit beside me as I work through my own inner storms.  Be the steady hand I can reach for as I find my way.  It's a quiet reminder that I'm not alone in this vast sometimes frightening world.  Hold my hand until dawn helping me to remember my strength!”

When the words of another inspire us, we’re energized toward quite a direction, maybe beyond any we previously thought possible.  To shine any more light could be the spark someone needs getting them to the next level that achieves progress.

Being the thrust a person requires might result in phenomenal things we may not have envisioned.  If our light-shining is effective, then the ways to influence those within our environment make great strides.  Shine on!

Wired To Be Replenished

Wired To Be Replenished

         When we get injured or cut, the healing begins almost instantly, and maybe feeling better begins soon after.  To get physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually fed and hydrated makes a significant difference in so many ways.

         Being hungry and thirsty we seek to fill those needs.  Nourishment is filling us to a balanced level, maybe to a point that we can be a blessing to someone else.

         In areas of love and caring we look for connections as well as viable relationships.  I was recently reminded about ‘tudes taught like Beatitudes and gratitude.

         Inspiring and energizing others can enliven them as well as us.  Our outreach could make goodness happen to uplift a person from their grief or sadness.

         We don’t even have to say a word, just being there beside them may be enough.  To refill their void might restore the wholeness they’re seeking bringing a smile to brighten complexions.  Just be there, and be joyful.

Missionary in Poway/U.C.

Missionary in Poway 

Written March 1998, in the St. Michael Church Youth Voice newsletter

In August, 1990 after being laid-off from a job. I considered some different opportunities.  I thought it was an opportune time to go to some other country and do some missionary work.  After ]raying about it I thought about what leaving would mean, moving away from family and friends.  And the prospect of that seemed scary.

Then a friend encouraged me to contact Tammy(Hanks Mansir), and help with the Youth Ministry activities here at St. Michael.  That began the journey of living my faith, and sharing my faith amongst you in this community.  Through this I realized that God was calling me to be a missionary, but not to some far off hand, rather to the people of St. Michael and all my other environments.

Some people are called to carry God's message a great distance, but most of us are simply to bloom where we are planted.  God will use you wherever you are, if you are willing to answer, "Here I am, Lord!"

As a missionary I have been God's messenger, but as a person of faith I have also had times when I've grown in that faith because of you.  It could be through direct contact, or indirect contact like praying for you or sharing a story that somehow touched your life.

Looking back I see that for the most part I have chosen to be comfortably holy. But God wants us to go beyond our perceived limitations and be uncomfortably holy.  That point of uncomfortable holiness can only be defined between each of us and God.

Jesus said the greatest gift one can give is to lay down your life for a friend.  Each time we put another's needs ahead of our own needs, wants, and desires we are giving up a part of our life for a friend.  Jesus said, "Love one another as I have loved you."

It takes a lot of strength, courage, and love to be that giving.  When we have Jesus' presence touch us the effect is like an overflowing cup.

Another key to the role of a missionary is humility. I had to let go of my selfish wants and put myself in God's hands. But it was and continues to be a struggle.  Many times I want to do it my way, or I know what's right.  So God just waits for me to come back and seek guidance to follow His will.

Saying, "yes," to God's missionary work for me has also led to incredible spiritual growth, yet still I'm yearning for more.  God's calling you too!

Missionary in U.C.

Written March 2996, in the (Our Mother of Confidence) Youth 4-1-1 newsletter

 

In 1990, after being laid-off from a job, I considered some different opportunities.  I thought it was a time I could go to some other country and do some missionary work.  After praying about it, I thought about what leaving would mean; moving away from family and friends.  The prospect of that seemed scary.

Then a friend encouraged me to help with their youth ministry activities (at St. Michael, in Poway).  That began a journey of living my faith, and sharing my faith in that community.  Through those experiences I realized that God was calling me to be a missionary, but not to some far off land, rather to the people of St. Michael and all my other environments.

My environments for missionary work also include Our Mother of Confidence (since 1992, in University City) and directly with the Youth Ministry Program since January 2005.

Some people are called to carry God's message a great distance, but most of us are simply to bloom where we are planted.  God will use you wherever you are, if you are willing to answer, "Here I am Lord!"

As a missionary I have been God's messenger (as you are), but as a person of faith I also grow in my faith because of you.  It could be through direct contact, or even indirectly, like praying for each other or sharing a story that somehow touched our lives.

Most of the time I've chosen to be comfortably holy.  But God wants us to go beyond our perceived limitations and be uncomfortably holy.  That point of uncomfortable holiness can only be defined between each of us and God.

Jesus said the greatest gift one can give is to lay down your life for a friend.  Each time we put another's needs ahead of our own needs, wants, and desires, we are giving up a part of our life for a friend.  Jesus said, "Love one another as I have loved you."

It takes a lot of strength, courage, and love to be that giving. When we have Jesus' presence touch us, the effect is like an overflowing cup, blessing many around us.

Another key to the role of a missionary is humility.  I had to let go of my own selfish wants and put myself in God's hands.  But it was and continues to be a struggle.  Many times I want to do it my way, or I know what's right. So God just waits for me to come back and seek guidance to follow His will.

My "Yes," to follow God's way includes a faith connection with all of you.  And I am blessed by that!

I’ll Stand Close, and Raise ______

I’ll Stand Close, and Raise ______

         When someone is in need and we’re close enough to help, there is an opportunity to raise the temperature if a person is cold, to raise someone’s spirit if they are sad, inspire another who needs it, etc..  Being in another’s Support Group offers encouragement and assistance to reach a level that goes beyond what may have been imagined.

        If we’re in need, we also have to be willing to accept the help of other people, so that we can progress forward.  To expect assistance may be so challenging if we block the way for someone to be the giver.

        To be one who lifts a person to levels that achieve tremendous results can be a blessing and a step toward incredible hope.  For us to stand close to the needy could show caring, kindness and compassion, uplifting others as well as ourselves.

        A Support Group is so important to each of us, to get past our issues, to points that brighten our paths.  Closeness can be a phenomenal boost for so many that are connected.

        Terrific results would come from beneficial links that are established by any unions to transform participants.  I can do amazing things in lives of another by just doing forward thinking tasks.  Be Supportive, Lift Others Up! 

When It Comes To Sharing (Giving), Some Stop At Nothing

When It Comes To Sharing (Giving), Some Stop At Nothing

 

Originally written October 2007, in OMC's Faith in-Formation newsletter

On September 30th our Gospel reading (Luke 16: 19-31) was about Jesus telling the story of a rich man and a poor beggar named Lazarus.  The rich man didn't even notice Lazarus' needs, even though the begging was happening so close to where he lived.

         Jesus told this story to show how we relate to others affects our fate in eternal life. It's important to treat each other in kind and caring ways.  Our actions help to build up connections and strengthen the bonds between each of us and other people, as well as the ones with God.  Many of the lessons that Jesus taught are about sharing and giving, because it is a topic we need to hear about over and over again.

         The title of this story actually has two meanings, the way I see it one is being like the rich man in the Gospel story who gave nothing to the poor at his door, and who's focus was self-centered. The other is very generous, and nothing stops them from sharing and giving.

         We all see the needs of others everyday, everywhere.  "Begging" comes to us in very different ways. Those needs could be for food/drink, clothing, attention, friends, and many more ways you could suggest.  Some of the needy are far away or close, even crossing our path directly.

         But how do we respond to the needs of those people God brings to us?  Some are easier to help than others.  Will we stop at nothing? Or will nothing stop us from being the kind and caring people Jesus challenges and expects us to be.

         It takes work to become aware of the needs of others around us.  It takes effort, choices and actions to see the "begging" and respond.  I think one of the things Jesus will ask us is "What needs did you see?" and "In which ways did you stop at nothing?"

Walked Smack Dab Into ______ - An Epiphany

Walked Smack Dab Into ______

-    An Epiphany

     When we encounter something, there’s a realization of relevance that is made apparent to our senses.  Then we’re presented with a “What do I do with this?” scenario.

        And if we face a time when our way gets lost or obstacles block the path to clarity, then we need something to give us that forward pushing.  Thank the person who rekindled your light, and restarted your flame.

        Moving toward improvement, we can appreciate anyone who inspired, energized and motivated us.  The brightened vision highlights the way our viewpoint is formed and makes our decisions ones that are enhanced.

        We are all wired to ______, with healing and positivity on the horizon.  When our calling becomes known, nothing can stop us.  And anything that we’re challenged with may lead us to incredible results.

        Being made aware of a situation reality could reveal magnificent items that maybe we weren’t sensing previously.  The jump-start we experience may be what’s needed to take us to levels thought impossible.  Be Present – stay aware and become a gift to another.

Life Unraveling Is Not Enjoyable

Life Unraveling Is Not Enjoyable

         Our challenges in life present immense predicaments for us to face, and many issues to overcome.  Relying on a Support Group has incredible benefits, and builds community strength.

        I saw recently, “Wherever you stand, be a blessing.”, and that offers much encouragement that we can lift others up by doing something small or just being there to comfort them.  When I had my strokes, the family and friends as well as therapies were amazing in my unraveling times.

        Over the years I’ve seen many who thought nobody understood what they were going through, until they heard the stories of others.  Then they realized connections and had hope that their vision could be better.

        There was a time I felt pressured, and the message I received was “You are not far from hope.”   Today there’s a renewed beginning, with a fresh start toward a progressive future.

        The life ahead can be uplifting for us and all we encounter, that we bring brightness unto and inspire as well as energize in ways they may not have envisioned.  Giving another an enjoyable perspective can appeal to much more than them, maybe all that cross their path.  Do amazing things!

Thanksgiving In The Midst of Thanks-living

Thanksgiving In The Midst of Thanks-living

 

This month is when we commemorate an occasion from American history that we call Thanksgiving.  We certainly have many blessings for which we should be and are thankful. Should we limit our thanksgiving to a particular time of year or should it be a part of our lifestyle?

              That's what thanks-living is all about.  We should recognize that we have reason to be thankful everyday of our life and our actions should show our appreciation to those people who are there for us and help us out.

              Each day I have a chance to see some of God's creation, is a day to be joy-filled and a time when I should say, "Thank You, God."  I look at all things whether simple or complex and I appreciate the presence of God in everything around me.

              What about the people?  Are they reasons to be thankful?  Sure, they are!!!  Those family members, friends and even the yet-to-be friends are gifts from God, and I am thankful to go out and meet so many of them.

              I will be celebrating Thanksgiving this month just like you, but I will also put it into a proper perspective.  When I realize my daily deeds have a degree of thankfulness it will become part of my lifestyle.

              I say, "Thank You Lord," for every person, everything and every chance with which I am blessed because in each of them I can meet God.  There is an awesome fulfilling presence that gives me life and leads me to a richer, more positive, and hopeful mind-set.

              When I can look beyond the present struggles and pain of life to see a vision of what can be, I will pursue that goal.  This is what our faith is all about.  We learn about what is beyond our earthly life from stories in the Bible.

              Jesus came that we may have life, eternal life.  For this very reason I am thankful, but also for the love God shows me each day in every way.

Originally published for St. Michael Church's Youth Voice, November 1994.

What If vs. Even If

What If vs. Even If

         I’ve heard “Fear is ‘What if’ and Faith is ‘Even if’ “  So the first shows questioning and the second is reasoning through.  Fear creates separation between us and others, but the other builds community.

        Strengthening the bonds of our togetherness reveals there is much more than the limitations that are apparent.  When we can get beyond the queries into points of stability, we’re assured of confidence to be able to accomplish great deeds.

        Putting ourselves in good environments achieves positive results, and makes confident strides forward.  Ideas sparked through others inspire and energize us to do amazing things.

        We cannot do all the good the world needs, but the world needs all the good we can do.  The things we make happen may improve the zones we touch and cause enhanced creativity.

        To edify others lifts them up to levels beyond any they have expected, yet the gift is cherished.  Being builders takes effort and dedication to that craft and fulfilling the plan.  Take the “Even If” step ahead; Just Do It.

 

Also -- Courage doesn’t mean you aren’t afraid.  Courage means you don’t let fear control you.

I’m Not In Her Shadow; I’m Her Light

I’m Not In Her Shadow; I’m Her Light

        A reporter asked Maya Angelou’s son “What is it like growing up in Maya Angelou’s shadow?”  He said “I’m not in her shadow.  I’m her light.”  She raised him well, into a man with the right perspective.

        We can all rise to be the best version of ourselves, taking out of the things we learn and experience inspiration and energy that benefits us to become amazing people.  When phenomenal items are presented to us, then if we receive it well, so much more brightens our lives.

        Somebody important in our life can be such a tremendous part of our journey, that it leaves a lasting mark.  But we may also have an influence unto another that can be a blessing for both them and us.

        Being available could be the needed light that someone requires to fill their void and help them stabilize the level they’re seeking.  Perspectives to reach our fullness point would enrich us to where we might spill onto others blessings to energize them as well as inspire accomplishments.

        A placement in someone’s shadow might seem like a darkened region though we could also be a bright spot in another’s challenge.  Looking back at experiences reveals insights allowing us to see some incredible aspects that maybe we missed while living through it.  Shine immense light.

Flood of Damage, Flood of Helping

Flood of Damage, Flood of Helping

         Recently we’ve had several disasters that caused so much damage and flooding has impacted many areas.  But also the influx of helping has been significant, both near and distant.

The massive community support has inspired contributions of the vitally needed resources to aid communities in recovery efforts.  The flood of help is immense on a grand scale, with tremendous outreach.

         Levels of assistance have phenomenal impact and draw people in to be available, sometimes on short notice, but with impeccable timing.  We’re supportive in amazing methods to stand by others as they need so much.

         When we see someone struggling, and lending a hand is something doable, being a helper can lift that person toward a stable point.  The Mom of Mr. Rogers used to comfort his anxiety by saying, “Look for the helpers.” and that was the encouragement he needed.

         If we can be in the Support Group for another, then building up those people or communities would be the fixers in our reach.  A flood can be so hurtful, but in ways could be helpful too.  Assist where/when/how.

Permission To Be Imperfect

Permission To Be Imperfect

     In “The Birth Order Book” by Dr. Kevin Leman, he used the phrases “Give yourself permission to be imperfect”, and “Give yourself permission to fail”.  If we wait for when we’re good enough to do somethings, then that thing may never get started.

     Begin now is a good time and place to let the happening get underway, so even though “imperfect” may be on the horizon, moving forward should still be our focus.  To fail is definitely a possibility, but “failure” doesn’t have to be accepted as a label.

     Just try, and choose the process that allows goodness to occur, making outcomes shine around us.  There is so much potential amidst our being, it fills us with hope to make the surroundings brighter.

     When we’re open to perspectives then inspirations can lead us toward a greater path, and the outcome may change ours as well as other’s futures.  If it is within our grasping and we hold onto that which is gifted to us, thence the valued and valuable parts of us are cherished and ready to bless others by pay-it-forward opportunities.

     The “imperfect” chances could be made perfect “presents” as times of awareness and being gifts to another.  The giving ourselves permission to ……, is the ultimate self-talk we may need to do ……!  Say yes, just do!

Kindness In The Race To Be Human

Kindness In The Race To Be Human

     Our action choices always border on the positive or negative, in which we can choose the level of caring, compassion and kindness to infuse.  To relate to another well speaks glowingly about our character.

     Someone once said, “If we don’t bring the gift with us, we won’t find it there.”  The same is likely about kindness, if we don’t bring it, finding it may be difficult to locate.

     Being human is easier when we act humane, and treat others with love and respect.  We have many opportunities to flourish in environments, to bless those with whom we connect.

     The speed in our gait is an impressive outcome resulting in tremendous perspectives plus putting us in places that open possibilities.  The love we have for others has amazing in propelling us toward greater dimensions.

     When reaching to get close to someone it’s easier to realize so much in their build-up and their background.  The way we respond to that person’s needs or hurts can be the healing making the difference.  Be kinder!

Palanca for Cursillo #310 & #311

Palanca for Cursillo #310 & #311

My Lord and my God

Cursillo #310 (October 2024)

These words are when the Presence of Jesus is recognized.

And His peace is given as a blessing and a welcoming.

He is there for us, showing the way to the Father & Spirit.

He reveals Himself that we can know we are not alone.

     Seeing my Lord and my God, we know He’s close!

 

Realizing Jesus is present, we receive then we can share.

We’re sent on mission and God brings ones to our path.

Living Tabernacles we’ve become to contain the Blessed Lord.

Ministering to others, bringing healing to all, we go forth.

     Sharing Jesus is our calling and challenge!

 

Grace & Power:  Enough

Cursillo #311 (October 2024)

The Grace and Power of God fills us; to the Enough level.

It can also overflow and spill onto others brought to our path.

We are here to receive the gifts God is offering to each of us.

What God shares with us is tremendous and quite filling.

     The gifts of grace and power are enough.

 

As we’ve received, now is our turn to pass on to another.

Reflecting God is the mission ahead of us, our calling.

Jesus sends us out, but not alone, but with companions.

Solo we’re not, but linked in community, united with family members

      We are more, because of God’s ENOUGH!

 

Palanca

         This term was introduced to me as a Spanish word meaning “lever” to lift another toward God with prayer and sacrifice.  Then a note of support and encouragement can be added to communicate the feelings to one or more people.

An Oxygen Mask Item

An Oxygen Mask Item

  On a plane when an oxygen mask falls there are some things wrong; but put yours on first, then help someone else.  When presented with such an item, we could enter the chaos or calmly proceed.

First responders are most effective because of their attitude, but not so with first reactors.  If we are not rational in acting then are we able to handle the situation that needs clear thinking.

For clarity in approaching a situation, we need to be able to reach out in ways so putting our best selves in the place to allow a thriving character to have great results.  Faced with something like an oxygen mask dropping in our presence shows us that issues are looming and we must address the problematic things.

When a traumatic occurrence is in our midst then fear may become overwhelming to deal with.  The oxygen mask may be real or symbolic of a helper to get us beyond the challenge we face.

To be filled with hope we can take steps toward positivity so progress is within our grasp.  Having that thing to get us to the next level brightens a perspective so we can see clearly.  Receive the helper to be a helper.

You’re A Jewel

You’re A Jewel

A jewel has many facets, similar to each of us, and how we interact with others in our environments.  The ways we shine blesses many of those connected to us.

Precious is the resulting Support Groups we’re part of, and also any that help us on our way.   Valued and valuable are traits giving us amazing insights that lift our self-esteem.

Seeing ourselves in such ways improves the perspective reflecting in the picturesque masterpieces we portray.  A gem appearing in a setting we reside in can affect those with close contact to us.

We are bright spots in many lives to edify people immensely, and be inspirational and energizing to accomplish magnificent deeds.  To bring an infinite goodness for others illuminates such tremendous levels.

The facets that we add our environments maybe beyond any we may imagine possible.  Just being where we are could be the needed presence to do great things.  Be the gem, be the gift.

Broken Things Fixer

Broken Things Fixer

Someone described his vocation this way, similar to what I’ve seen my role as working wherever I am, to do good.  Missionary work doesn’t have to be in a far off place, but a missionary mindset can accomplish a task that is close at hand.

As I look back at my life I’ve had many opportunities to do just that, to fix things in some ways were broken.  Mending various items was satisfying immensely, bringing joy and smiles to many.

Plus having a hand in the repairs taught me lessons to cherish great and memorable experiences.  Being open to receive messages has given me incredible boosts toward chances for phenomenal rewards.

When we are in environments that help others, what gets returned to us reflects magnificently.  As we’re able to be available to others there is so much positivity that’s revealed for and those we contact.

When we fix what is possible that which gets done shines brightly in ways beyond anything we’d imagined.  The glue we use and are makes a tremendous difference to all affected.  Something fixed can be shared in stories! 

Ready For Climb-It Change

Ready For Climb-It Change

We face many mountains that block our progress, and challenges for us to overcome.  But when issues and problems come our way, a Support Group is tremendously helpful in being just what we need.

If our imaginations give us the blessings to ascend to dimensions we had not envisioned, then hope-filled our perspective is.  A positive view can propel us to levels allowing us the results to peak heights.

Hiking might be a calming and peaceful experience, but can also be spiritually revealing.  John Muir described it as disliking that word “hiking” and changed viewpoints to “sauntering” in our woods.

A friend came back from a vacation and told me he was going to stop going on vacations.  He would still travel, but now would look for something spiritual, and they would become pilgrimages.

That changed my own travels, so I looked for things spiritual, and my journeys became pilgrimages.  Even local trips or walks revealed things so eye-opening to show renewed insights.  Be on the lookout for surprises!

Don’t Let The Hard Days Win

Don’t Let The Hard Days Win

There are many challenges we face, overcoming them is possible if we rely on our Support Group for encouragement.  Stepping up to get us past blockades can be tremendously uplifting.

When we seek the building up from others or be the support other’s need, the benefits are immense.  The “hard days” aren’t so bleak when we have a community to uphold us and be there in our need.

We have a sign in our house – “Some call it chaos, we call it family” – and those bonds are strengthening.  Dealing with the issues and problems can have severe repercussions, but they may also teach lessons that are edifying in many ways.

Opportunities available could result in brightening our focus toward a phenomenal outlook.  If only we are open to see what approaches us with a renewed gift, a “PRESENT” to our awareness and that we’re a gift to some other person.

Being still in meditation allows us to receive messages to advance to levels beyond what we realized was in our realm.  Grasping that which is in our reach makes the perspective of what can enrich us.  We are winners!

Getting To Done; Begin – And Continue

Getting To Done; Begin – And Continue

     We’re faced with many tasks, but the beginning point is key.  The start to anything is so important in accomplishing a deed that can be a blessing, for us and others.

     Seeing a project through has tremendous facets to reach heights as well as depths so filling us with worthiness.  The feeling of satisfaction brings a smile to our face and joy to our heart in ways maybe beyond imagining.

     To persevere till the end gives us something so amazing that results in such happiness to uplift us toward incredible dimensions.  We are inclined to receive gifts along the journey of the workplace we pursue.

     Making a thing happen whether a story or artwork or building something or whatever can have a thrilling outcome.  A finished product could benefit a person or a cause with phenomenal traits.

     Continuing what we’ve started to the end-point is so justifying in the way we set out to get a project done.  The beginning and continuing are keys to getting the “DONE” to happen.  Be diligent, persevere!

I Too Suffer, I Relate

I Too Suffer, I Relate

     There is so much we go through, immense pain, that affects us to the point we feel the impact.  Love can only spill from a heart that has softened and in most cases is broken.

     When I’m afflicted, maybe even traumatized, there is room for progress and healing.  If I act in caring, compassionate and kind ways then blessings can be shared with others and environments are improved.

     I’m repeating “Love can only spill from a heart that has softened and in most cases is broken” as it is so touching.  Because of that, now I love differently.  I’m open to perspectives and insights that expand my world in directions beyond any I previously measured.

     Another thing I’ve learned is we connect better with others through our brokenness than through our wholeness.  To fail we are strengthened unto improvement, thus the practice of anything, sports, work, art, faith, allowed us reach unimaginable statuses.

     Being uplifted by challenges is getting us to places we may not have thought possible, but now realize is within our grasp.  Having the Support Group available makes reaching higher and for more a reality.

Don’t Let Life Blow Out Your Candle

Don’t Let Life Blow Out Your Candle

     Our way is lit up, but life’s challenges should not interfere to the point it affects our well-being.  We don’t choose what comes our way, but it is our choice how we’re affected by the occurrences.

     When what we face is overwhelming it can blind us so it is hard to notice what is apparently close, and maybe blocking our view from the progress to get beyond.  If we’re unable to recognize the goodness to lead in directions that are true then we may be lost in an everlasting maze.

     Reaching out to those who can provide support could be our needed help to get us to that next level.  One time as I felt attacked, I prayed in Church by the 1^st Station – “Jesus is condemned to death”.  I felt like I identified with some of what Jesus was going through.

     The message God gave me was “Look to the left.”  I did, and saw the red candle, by the Tabernacle.  That is where the Body of Christ is kept in reserve.  Then God said, “You are not far from hope.”

     Look around, there are signs of hope all around, just waiting for us to receive, take in then share the blessings.  And when we light another’s candle it doesn’t lessen our own light.  We aren’t diminished by sharing.